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Governor reminds Virginians of burning ban
RICHMOND - Gov. Timothy M. Kaine reminds citizens of Virginia's annual spring fire season burning ban. The spring fire season, as defined by state code, began Feb. 15 and continues until April 30. During this period, the commonwealth's "4 p.m. Burning Law" prohibits outdoor burning before 4 p.m. each day. Violation of the law is a Class Three misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500.
"This week's wildfires showed us that conditions still exist for major fires that could pose a danger to citizens and property," said Kaine. "The spring burning ban is an important precaution to prevent such incidents during a period of elevated risk."
On Feb. 10, the Virginia Department of Forestry reported 324 wildland fires for the day, shattering the 40-year record of 88 fires in a single day. The fires burned at least 13,148 acres of privately owned land in Virginia, 2,000 acres more than burned in 2007.
"I hope that we never break, tie or even come close to this record ever again," said state forester Carl E. Garrison III.
More than 740 firefighters from county, municipal and volunteer fire departments across the commonwealth joined in the fight against the fires. Approximately 100 Virginia National Guard soldiers received training in wildland fire suppression after being called up Sunday night, following the governor's declaration of a state emergency. Soldiers were assigned to large fires in Bedford and Roanoke counties, and 25 guard troops provided aerial fire suppression with two helicopters.
"The response to this unprecedented fire event has been incredible," Kaine said. "So many individuals, organizations, agencies and businesses offered support in their own ways. Virginians came together to help one another and I thank them for their service and selflessness."
The governor expressed his appreciation to the many entities who responded to the fires and their aftermath, including firefighters, law enforcement officials, emergency responders, transportation workers, 911 operators, emergency shelter staffs, the Red Cross, Virginia National Guard and emergency management officials.
Debris burning remains the No. 1 cause of fires in Virginia. Anyone burning debris should comply with the 4 p.m. burning ban, any local restrictions and exercise proper caution to ensure their fire is safe and contained. In addition to any fines for violating the fire laws, anyone who allows a fire to escape is liable for the potentially significant costs of suppressing that fire.
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