County fire ban in place

Hot Springs County officially entered a fire ban on July 21 after the county commissioners signed a resolution upon recommendation from the Hot Springs County Fire Warden.

Until further notice, any open fire or discharge of any class fireworks is prohibited on all unimproved state and private land within Hot Springs County.

There are exceptions, however.

Trash or refuse burned between 6 p.m. and 8 a.m. must be inside a container equipped with spark arrestors inside a cleared area with at least a 10-foot radius.

Charcoal fires are allowed within enclosed grills.

Welding or the use of acetylene cutting torches or electric arc welders is allowed provided they are used within a cleared area of at least 10 feet. Chain saws must have spark arrestors properly installed and functioning.

Penalties associated with violations of the fire ban include a fine of up to $100 and/or 30-days in jail. Cost of restitution for fire suppression can be added to the penalty.

The fire ban will remain in effect until further notice.