DELAWARE- Delaware's annual burn ban season will begin Thursday, May 1, and run through Tuesday, Sept. 30, according to state fire officials. During this time, most forms of open burning will be prohibited to help prevent wildfires and protect communities across the state.
According to fire authorities, the following types of burning are allowed during the ban:
Cooking fires, such as grills and barbecues
Campfires in designated camping areas
Milton Fire Chief Johnny Hopkins emphasized the importance of staying cautious during windy and dry conditions.
"If you're going to utilize that practice, make sure you have something nearby to put the fire out, an extinguisher or water hose nearby. Make sure it's all the way out when you leave and go inside for the evening if that's the case," Hopkins said.
Officials also reminded the public that certain types of burning are illegal year-round, including:
Burning waste or garbage
Burning fallen leaves and grass clippings
Burning materials from land clearing, unless it is for agricultural purposes
DNREC says the burn ban is also in place to reduce harmful ozone pollution during what is known as “Ozone Season.”
Environmental Scientist Gerald Mood of DNREC's Division of Air Quality explained that the summer months bring higher temperatures and longer daylight hours, conditions that increase the likelihood of ground-level ozone formation.
"The burning ban is critical for continuing to improve our air quality," Mood said in a DNREC statement.
Officials note that smoke from burning materials contains particulate matter and chemicals that can contribute to ozone creation in the atmosphere. The statewide ban includes agricultural and prescribed burns, along with the burning of brush, branches and limbs on private property. State law prohibits the burning of leaves, grass, trash, tires, construction or demolition debris, paper, cardboard, plastic, furniture, fabric and mattresses.
The open burning ban is in effect through Sept. 30 and may be further restricted if an Air Quality Action Day is declared or if the State Fire Marshal issues a more stringent burn order.
DNREC encourages the use of safer alternatives, including:
Curbside collection or yard waste drop-off sites
- Chipping or shredding branches
- Turn them into mulch for landscaping or gardening
- Composting yard materials
- Add leaves and clippings to a compost pile to enrich soil
For more information, people are encouraged to contact their local fire department or visit DNREC's website.
