Open burning period starts March 15

The spring 2008 open burning period for the East Fork Fire Districts starts on March 15 and continue through May 18.

Residents residing in Minden, Gardnerville, Genoa, Sunridge (east side of Highway 395 only), Johnson Lane, East Valley, Fish Springs, Ruhenstroth, Topaz Ranch Estates, Topaz Lake, Ranchos and Sheridan area (east side of Foothill Road) are required to obtain an open burn regulation form for the current burn period that includes information and all regulations required to ensure a safe burn and maintain compliance with air quality standards. Residents residing in the Sierra Forest Fire Protection District which includes Jacks Valley, Indian Hills and west of Foothill Road to the California state line, must get an on-site inspection prior to a permit being issued. Those residents may call 783-6415 to arrange for an inspection. Inspections are not required outside of those areas.

A current valid spring 2008 burn permit is required to be on the premises prior to and during burning; a new permit is required each season. Prior to ignition residents must call the burn line number on the permit to verify it is an open burn day.

Burn days are determined on a day-by-day basis and are based on current weather conditions and forecast. The burn hours are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. All flames and hot ashes must be extinguished by 3:30 p.m. The fire chief or his designee shall determine on a daily basis whether burning will be allowed due to current or predicted weather conditions

The burning of garbage, rubbish, waste, toxic material, construction debris, plastics or other hydrocarbon products or fuels is prohibited.

Burning standing grass and weeds is prohibited. Use of burn barrels is prohibited. The burn area must be in a clear open area no larger than 3 feet high and 5 feet in diameter and have at least 30 feet clearance from structures, roots, overhangs, wood piles, awnings, or combustible surfaces.

A fire break to mineral earth not less than 10 feet shall be maintained around all fires. A garden hose attached to a pressurized water supply shall be immediately available and functional for emergency use. In addition, have a rake, shovel, hoe, or pulaski available to manage and extinguish the fire.

The fire must be attended and controlled at all times by a competent adult 18 years old or older. If the wind conditions at the burn site exceed 15 mph, burning must cease immediately. Smoke from the burn shall not discharge material which has an offensive odor or which may be injurious or detrimental to the health and safety of others. Wear full shoes that cover your feet, long pants and a long sleeve shirt. Avoid wearing nylon, polyester or loose fitting clothing.

Burn regulation forms will be available beginning Friday, March 14, 2008 at the East Fork Fire and Paramedic Districts' Administration Office at 1594 Esmeralda Avenue in Minden, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Burn regulations will also be available for pick up at the following fire stations: Douglas County Engine Company, 1606 Hwy 395, Minden, Gardnerville VFD, 1255 Douglas Avenue, Genoa VFD, 2298 Main Street, Topaz Ranch Estates VFD, 1476 Albite, Topaz Lake VFD, 1990 Austin Street, Johnson Lane VFD, 1450 Stephanie Lane, Gardnerville Ranchos, 940 Mitch Drive, Sheridan VFD, 980 Sheridan Lane, Fish Springs VFD, 2249 Fish Springs Road, Ruhenstroth, VFD, 2008 Pinto Circle, Station 12, 3463 Princeton Way, and Station 14, 1699 County Road.

The regulations will also be available in The Record-Courier on March 14, March 19, and March 21. In addition, the regulations can also be downloaded and printed from the East Fork Fire and Paramedic Districts' Web site at effpd.co.douglas.nv.us. For additional information contact Toni Braga with the East Fork Fire and Paramedic Districts at 783-6415.