Prowers County Fire Ban in Effect

MEDIA RELEASE

To the Citizens and Visitors of Prowers County,

Based upon current environmental conditions, the perceived fire threat and the fires we have already experienced in the areas of Prowers County, the Sheriff as Fire Warden, the County Commissioners and the Rural Fire Chief have agreed to place Prowers County in a Fire Ban, effective 6-13-2018.

Per Prowers County Ordinance 2006-01, no open fires are permitted in the unincorporated areas of Prowers County. Open fires are defined as any outdoor fire, including but not limited to camp fires, warming fires, trash barrels and other trash receptacles. Also, the burning of fence lines or rows, fields, farm lands, irrigation ditches, range lands, wild lands, trash and debris.

It is unlawful for anyone to use or conduct an open fire in unincorporated Prowers County including public, private, state and federal lands. Open fires for necessary agricultural purposes should seek permit approval by contacting Prowers County Dispatch at 719-336-3977, for the approval from the Prowers County Rural Fire Chief. Even with a burn permit these fires should still be personally supervised and not left unattended, with water and equipment to prevent the spread being readily available.

We feel with the high fire danger this ban is necessary for the preservation and protection of the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Prowers County. As always partnering with the communities to help us prevent unnecessary fires is the greatest asset we have. We encourage you to refrain from any activities which could create fires, to include fireworks. As the season approaches remember the municipalities generally provide fireworks displays. Take advantage of those displays to keep the county safe and fire free as the forecast of our conditions will likely get worse.

Be fire aware of where you dump charcoal grills, conduct welding operations, and don’t throw lit objects, such as cigarettes from vehicles. Should the weather change we will re-evaluate the burn restriction as needed.

Again, we thank you for your cooperation and your efforts to help us keep the county safe.

Sheriff Sam Zordel