SHELBURNE, MA (FRANKLIN COUNTY NOW) — A red flag warning day is in effect across Massachusetts today from 8 am to 6 pm as the dry spell and winds continues, creating critical fire conditions. Any fires that start may spread rapidly and become difficult to contain.
Most municipalities have imposed outdoor fire bans with the support of the Massachusetts Fire Chiefs Association. Shelburne has joined the long list of communities with a ban on all outdoor fires through Saturday, November 9th.
According to Shelburne Fire Chief John Taylor, the order prohibits any or all open flames, candles, and open, recreational, and cooking fires or other sources of ignition (such as welding and cutting). “This goes beyond the normal restrictions”, says Taylor. “There is always a total prohibition of fireworks or the burning of trash, and limitations on the burning of wood and brush materials by permit. This order prohibits even cooking or camp fires.”
This current order will expire on Saturday night, November 9th, at 11PM and is in effect in the village and rural areas of the Town. The order may be extended if weather conditions do not change.
With the current heating season underway , increased attention must also be taken when removing wood stove ash. Place all the ash in a metal container, wet down the ash, and place a distance from any structures, with a lid to, prevent the wind from blowing any remaining hot embers.