Central Pennsylvania's first burn ban of the year has been initiated.
The Franklin County borough of Chambersburg enacted a burn ban last Wednesday. It is in effect until July 22, the borough announced.
Mayor Kenneth Hock enacted the ban at the recommendation of fire chief and EMS director Dustin Ulrich, the borough said. The ban is in place due to drier-than-normal temperatures and the lack of rainfall in the forecast.
There are no drought conditions in any Pennsylvania counties as of July 1, according to the Department of Environmental Protection's Drought Monitor.
Chambersburg's Borough Council may extend the ban by resolution on July 22, the borough said.
The declaration signed by Ulrich bans all recreational fires, highway safety flares, smudge pots, and fires on tracts of land of not less than 10 acres that are for agricultural or cemetery use.
Propane or charcoal grills are not covered under the ban, as long as they are used in accordance with manufacturer specifications, the borough said.
Chambersburg Police and State Police will enforce the ban, according to the borough.
"To report a fire you believe to be in violation of the burn ban, please contact the Franklin County Dispatcher at 717-263-1611," the borough said. "This will begin the process to have a Chambersburg Police Department officer dispatched to investigate your complaint. If you have any questions about the burn ban, please contact Dustin Ulrich, Fire Chief and EMS Director, at 717-251-2475.
