By Mark Blanton
news@standard-democrat.com
BENTON -- Dry conditions have prompted the Scott County Commission to issue an advisory about the dangers of burning and fireworks.
In a meeting Tuesday, the Commission issued a restricted burn notification for the county, due partly to high temperatures and low humidity. "We are critically dry," said Presiding Commissioner Jamie Burger.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, the period from June 2011 to May 2012 was the hottest recorded period in the state's history.
Scott, Mississippi and New Madrid counties are all under D3 Drought status, which is classified as "extreme," as of June 19.
The notification is designed to make people aware of the dangers presented by burning in dry weather, said County Commissioner Dennis Ziegenhorn.
In regards to the upcoming holiday on July 4, the commissioners recommend that under dry conditions, fireworks should not be used.
"The use of fireworks by individuals risks injury to the user and onlookers as well as posing a fire hazard for surrounding structures," said State Fire Marshal Randy Cole in a news release. "This year's extremely dry conditions elevate the risk that even small sparks created by consumer fireworks can lead to grass and brush fires, which can rapidly spread, posing a risk of wildland and structure fires."
For the complete article and more stories from the Standard Democrat, click here to log on to the electronic edition.