Burning brush safely with seasonal variables

With the falling of the leaves come beautiful colors, and the potential for danger as well. Every year the fallen leaves double as a fuel source for wildfires.

Forester Nick Smith, who oversees Floyd County with the Virginia Department of Forestry, said that from “October until the end of November has historically been an active time of the year for wildfires in the area.”

Smith said that although currently there are no restrictions to burning debris, that escaped flames from a burn pile is one of the main causes of wildfires, along with downed powerlines.  

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Using caution is vital to ensure safety of yourself, your neighbors, and nearby property.

Use these tips while burning brush piles:

• Have a charged hose close by
• Dampen the surrounding area
• Keep the burning pile small
• Keep burning pile 20-30 feet away from other flammable items
• Do not burn on windy days
• Make sure there are no open windows downwind, which would allow smoke to enter a home
• Check for local restrictions with Floyd Volunteer Fire Department (FCVFD) and burn bans 
• Call the Fire Department to let them know that you plan on burning 
• Burn a small amount on the high side first, then dampen this area. This creates a burned area, to lessen the chances of fire spread
• Fully wet burn pile after burning in completed
• Never leave a burning pile unattended

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Remember to call the FCVFD to let them know that you plan on burning outdoors. This allows the department to help monitor the burn and field any reports of smoke in the area.

Alert Floyd County Dispatch about controlled burns by calling the Sheriff's Office's non-emergent number at (540) 745-9334.

Notices of county-wide burn bans are shared on the County's website and Facebook page.