Burn restrictions begin

Virginia’s spring wildfire season — and burning restrictions — begin next week, as officials expect an increased threat of fires due to minimal rain and snowpack. In the latest Virginia drought

monitor report (Feb. 2), Rappahannock County is listed as “abnormally dry.”

More than 60 percent of Virginia’s annual average of 1,000 wildfires occur in the spring, with March and April the most active months. As a result, the “4 p.m. Burning Law” will go into effect next Wednesday, Feb. 15, the first day of the wildfire season. The law prohibits open burning between midnight and 4 p.m. each day, and remains in effect until April 30.

While burning is permitted between the other hours, officials caution residents not to burn under certain weather conditions, including low humidity, warm temperatures and winds over 10 miles per hour.

The number one cause of wildfires in Virginia is people burning yard debris and trash.

A violation of the 4 p.m. Burning Law is a Class 3 misdemeanor punishable by up to a $500 fine. In addition to the criminal violation, those who allow a fire to escape are liable for the cost of suppressing the blaze as well as any damage caused to others’ property.

Among wildfire prevention tips: remove all branches that touch the house, garage, shed, etc.; clear all brush (tall grass, leaves, branches, weeds, etc.) within 30 feet of the home and other structures; keep gutters clear of debris; install spark arresters on chimneys.