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Jun 19, 2023

How to comply with Mississippi's burn ban guidelines

by: Sethanie Smith, Brandon Raines Posted: Aug 29, 2023 / 02:59 PM CDT Updated: Aug 29, 2023 / 05:28 PM CDT PEARL, Miss. (WJTV) – The Mississippi Forestry Commission is urging Mississippians to take

by: Sethanie Smith, Brandon Raines

Posted: Aug 29, 2023 / 02:59 PM CDT

Updated: Aug 29, 2023 / 05:28 PM CDT

PEARL, Miss. (WJTV) – The Mississippi Forestry Commission is urging Mississippians to take necessary precautions and follow burn ban guidelines to prevent further wildfires.

Despite a few isolated showers and storms, the state is still experiencing a drought, making it more susceptible to wildfires. With Labor Day approaching, MFC officials said it’s crucial to be cautious and refrain from any unnecessary burning.

Governor Tate Reeves (R-Miss.) signed a partial state-level burn ban proclamation to combat the increasing number of wildfires in Mississippi. The ban covers 40 counties, including the MFC regions 3 and 4. In addition, three other counties, including Humphreys, Oktibbeha, and Sunflower, are under burn bans.

Since August 1, the MFC has responded to more than 430 wildfires that burned more than 8,700 acres statewide. According to officials, the most susceptible areas to wildfire are currently on the coast and some areas in Central Mississippi.

The MFC’s Incident Management Team (IMT) is set up in Wiggins to coordinate operations. MFC team members are working with local, state, and federal partners to pool resources for the most susceptible areas to wildfire.

“We urge everyone to be cautious during the holiday weekend and continue to follow the burn ban guidelines to prevent any further wildfires,” said Russell Bozeman, State Forester. “By coordinating efforts and resources, MFC and the IMT aim to enhance the overall response capabilities and effectively manage wildfires.”

The National Fire Protection Association provided some safety tips, including:

Tips for Landscaping Around Your Home:

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