OKLAHOMA CITY – High winds and warming temperatures are forcing fire danger into the extreme category.
Gov. Mary Fallin has issued an executive proclamation to put 36 counties under a burn ban.
The following counties are included in the burn ban:
- Alfalfa County
- Beaver County
- Beckham County
- Blaine County
- Caddo County
- Canadian County
- Cimarron County
- Cleveland County
- Comanche County
- Cotton County
- Custer County
- Dewey County
- Ellis County
- Garfield County
- Grady County
- Grant County
- Greer County
- Harmon County
- Harper County
- Jackson County
- Kingfisher County
- Kiowa County
- Lincoln County
- Logan County
- Major County
- McClain County
- Noble County
- Oklahoma County
- Payne County
- Pawnee County
- Roger Mills County
- Texas County
- Tillman County
- Washita County
- Woods County
- Woodward County
The executive order bans outdoor burning for nearly half of the state.
It makes it illegal for anyone to set fire to any forest, grass, woods or marshes.
It is also prohibited to build a bonfire, set off fireworks or burn trash.
In addition to the 36 counties under the burn ban, Gov. Mary Fallin declared a State of Emergency for all 77 counties because of the threat of wildfires.
Under the executive order, agencies can make emergency purchases to help residents.
How to help protect your home during high fire danger
The Oklahoma Forestry Service is reminding Oklahomans to be vigilant:
- Precautions should be taken with any outdoor activity that could spark a blaze.
- Report any smoke or fire to the closest fire department immediately.
- Do not drive on a flat tire or drag chains or wires along pavement.
Fire officials said burning without a permit during a burn ban could result in fines from $177 to $1,200.
PREPARE: What to do if you are forced to evacuate for wildfires
