BATTLE CREEK, MI (WNWN/WTVB) – Battle Creek Fire Marshal Quincy Jones announced on Tuesday night that an Open Burn Ban was now in effect for the City of Battle Creek due to the dry conditions of the past month.
Jones stated in a news release that the Open Burn Ban status was effective immediately. He said, “This determination is based on updated weather conditions in relations to excessive dry conditions noted throughout the State of Michigan. Conditions are expected to remain dry and extreme for potential fire danger throughout the week. The Battle Creek Fire Department will continue to evaluate the status of weather conditions that may give conditional relief and lift of the ban in the following days to come.”
He went on to say rain is expected later this week at which a re-evaluation will be considered for resuming permissible open burning. The Open Burn Ban status will remain in effect until further notice.
Jones says burn permits will not be issued during the time of the ban and that those who currently have existing burn permits are not exempt from the ban.
Grills will still be allowed, but not in a yard. Anyone who uses a grill must have water or a fire extinguisher nearby and grills can not be left unattended.
Citizens can contact the Battle Creek Fire Department at (269) 966-3519 for updates or questions regarding the status of the local Open Burn Ban.
More information regarding the Michigan Department of Natural resources can be found at Michigan.gov/BurnPermit.
