Fire danger remains high: Residents urged to avoid burning

Webster County Emergency Management is warning residents of another week of dangerous fire weather conditions. Despite Friday’s rain admist the large storm cell that traveled through Webster County, it wasn’t enough to alleviate the ongoing risk. Authorities are urging the community to refrain from burning, not just today, but for the entire week.

"Last week, our fire departments were responding to brush fires continuously," the Emergency Management office said in a statement Monday. "We understand that many people believe they can control their burns, but this often leads to unintended consequences, damaging not only their own properties but also those of their neighbors."

Emergency officials are stressing the importance of community cooperation. "Please talk to your neighbors and friends. We know not everyone is connected to social media or has a cellphone, so it’s crucial we all work together to spread the word," the statement continued.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for Monday, with conditions expected to worsen due to dry air and gusty winds, increasing the risk of fires. The warning highlights the potential for significant fire weather through next week.

Fire departments and local officials continue to monitor the situation, hopeful that relief will come soon. In the meantime, they urge residents to hold off on any burning activities to help reduce the fire danger.

In light of the ongoing fire danger, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is reminding the public that anyone who starts a fire, for any reason, is responsible for any damage it may cause. MDC is urging landowners, hunters, campers, and all those spending time outdoors to be vigilant and help prevent wildfires by following these important safety tips:

• Outdoor Burning: Never burn during dry conditions. High temperatures, low humidity, dry grass, and wind create conditions where fire is nearly impossible to control. Always check with local fire departments about burn bans or Red Flag Warnings before burning.


• Driving Off Road: Avoid driving in dry grassy areas. Catalytic converters can ignite dry grass, leading to wildfires. Never park over tall, dry grass or leaves that could touch the underside of your vehicle. If driving off-road, regularly inspect your vehicle’s undercarriage for fuel and brake line issues. Always carry an approved fire extinguisher, and ensure ATVs are equipped with spark arresters.


• Making a Campfire: Clear a wide area around campfire rings, and store firewood far from the fire. Never use gasoline or other flammable liquids to start a fire. Keep campfires small and manageable, and always have fire-extinguishing tools like a rake, shovel, and water nearby. Be sure to extinguish campfires before leaving the site, even for a short time.


• Call for Help: At the first sign of a fire getting out of control, call 911 immediately.


• Report Forest Arson: If you suspect someone has set a fire deliberately, report it by calling 800-392-1111. Tips may remain anonymous, and rewards are available for information leading to arrests.


For more information on wildfire prevention, visit the MDC website at mdc.mo.gov/your-property/fire-management/wildfire-prevention.

Fire departments and local officials continue to monitor the situation, hopeful that relief will come soon. In the meantime, they urge residents to hold off on any burning activities to help reduce the fire danger.