Arkansas Issues Statewide Burn Ban Amid Persistent Drought

LITTLE ROCK, AR. - The Arkansas Department of Agriculture has placed all 75 counties under a burn ban effective Tuesday, September 8. This emergency measure comes as a result of a prolonged drought and continuing dry conditions that have left the state highly susceptible to wildfires.

State officials warn that the current environmental conditions have created a high-risk scenario where small, controlled fires can quickly escalate into uncontrollable wildfires. To protect residents, property, and natural resources, the department is urging the public and local agencies to exercise extreme caution.

Guidelines for Residents and Landowners

To mitigate the risk of fire and ensure a rapid response to emergencies, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture recommends the following actions:

1. Immediately report any wildfires to the Department's Forestry Dispatch at 1-800-468-8834.
2. Verify the current burn ban status in your specific county before attempting any outdoor burning.
3. Use extreme caution with any outdoor fire, as the risk of a fire escaping control continues to rise.
4. Report all prescribed fires before ignition by using the department's website or calling 1-800-830-8015.
5. Volunteer fire departments should prepare for a likely increase in emergency call volumes over the coming weeks.
6. Forest landowners should plan for a significantly shorter prescribed burn season this fall.
7. Homeowners and local communities are encouraged to familiarize themselves with Firewise USA, a wildfire preparedness program managed by the Department.

By following these safety protocols, Arkansas residents can help reduce the likelihood of devastating wildfires during this period of severe drought. State agencies will continue to monitor weather patterns and provide updates as conditions evolve.

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