Commissioners in three Texoma counties have enacted burn bans this week. Young, Montague and Clay County are all now under burn bans. This means that outdoor burning is prohibited with the exception of a few certain exemptions. With the proper precautions and notifications, prescribed burns, welding, firefighter training and agricultural burns may still be allowed. According to KFDX News Channel Three, citizens can still cook in enclosed pits or covered grills outdoors. While certain types of burning may still be allowed during the ban, citizens are encouraged to first check with county officials before burning to be on the safe side.
The Dangers of Prescribed Burns
Even when burn bans aren’t in effect, prescribed burns can be incredibly dangerous. Most farmers, ranchers and responsible citizens who conduct prescribed burns know the dangers involved. They plan appropriately and make sure safety and control are top priorities. Unfortunately, not everybody who burns does so responsibly. If you’re going to burn, you need to properly plan and execute the burn safely. If your fire damages another person’s dwelling or property, you can be held liable. Land owners who burn need to be familiar with environmental conditions, especially in North Texas where there is often the potential for high winds and very little humidity.
Burning in North Texas
It’s not uncommon for farmers and ranchers in North Texas to conduct prescribed burns. Although prescribed burning certainly has its place in the farming and agricultural community, it’s important to note that anytime a burn is taking place, there is a potential for danger. The windy and dry Texoma climate can be an especially dangerous factor when burning, so it’s absolutely critical to observe county-enacted burn bans. Even after a burn ban is lifted, great caution should still be exercised when conducting prescribed burns.
Victims of Fire Damage
Prescribed burns can quickly get out of hand due to negligence, inattention or unlawful burning during a ban. It’s not uncommon for burns to destroy acres upon acres of land, singeing the grass and ruining grazing land or killing cattle and other farm animals. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury or property damage due to fires, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney can protect your legal rights and make sure you’re fairly compensated for your damages and losses. Our team has extensive experience representing clients in fire damage cases. Contact the Altman Legal Group at (940) 761-4000 for a free consultation today.