HORRY COUNTY, SC (WMBF) – Horry County Fire and Rescue has reported about 40 brush fires across the area just this weekend and wants to remind everyone to be cautious while burning outside.
The South Carolina Forestry Commission has tips for everyone to follow before performing an outside burning.
First you must notify the South Carolina Forestry Commission. Each county has its own toll-free SCFC notification number:
- Horry County - 1-800-986-5404
- Florence County - 1-800-986-5165
- Darlington County - 1-800-986-3742
- Georgetown County - 1-800-986-5256
- Dillon County - 1-800-986-3745
For a complete list of all counties and SCFC notification numbers and more information on burning visit http://www.state.sc.us/forest/fyard.htm.
The second tip is to have a clear firebreak. This is a line established by raking all leaves, sticks, pine needles, etc. down to the soil all the way around the perimeter of the fire site. When your fire burns up to this line, it's automatically extinguished because all of the fuel has been raked away.
The bigger the burn site, the wider the fire break should be.
SCFC also wants to remind those planning to burn to always have equipment accessible during burning. This includes rakes, shovels, gloves, and a water supply.
When gathering the vegetation you plan on burning be sure to pile it into a containable area, cover it with a tarp and wait for a rainy day. After the rain has stopped take the tarp off and light the piled debris.
Trash and construction debris are illegal to burn. Also be sure to stay with the fire until it is completely extinguished and safe to walk away.
All burning must comply with DHEC regulations and local ordinances. Be sure to visit http://www.scdhec.gov/environment/baq/OpenBurning/ for more information.
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