If you live in Ohio or Kentucky, you might want to put off burning anything outside for now. Dry weather and strong winds have created the perfect conditions for wildfires, and even a small fire could spread dangerously fast.
Fire officials are urging residents to hold off on burning leaves, brush, or debris until conditions improve. Both states have seasonal burn restrictions in place to help prevent wildfires from starting in the first place. Even if it seems like a calm day, all it takes is one gust of wind to turn a controlled burn into an emergency.
Here’s what you need to know to keep your home and community safe.
Ohio’s Spring Wildfire Season – What You Need to Know
When? March 1 through May 31
During these months, Ohio has strict rules in place to prevent wildfires:
- No outdoor burning between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. in unincorporated areas.
- Why? The afternoons are the warmest, driest, and windiest part of the day, making it easy for a small fire to spread out of control.
- Even if there’s been some rain, dry grass, leaves, and brush can still ignite quickly once the sun dries them out.
Safer Ways to Get Rid of Yard Waste:
- Composting – A great way to recycle leaves and small branches while enriching your soil.
- Mulching – Spread chopped-up leaves or branches around your yard to help plants retain moisture.
- Yard Waste Pickup – Many cities offer seasonal yard waste collection services—check with your local waste department.
Kentucky’s Spring Fire Hazard Season – What You Should Know
When? February 15 through April 30
Kentucky’s fire restrictions are designed to protect woodlands and rural areas from fast-moving wildfires.
- No outdoor burning between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. if you are within 150 feet of a woodland or brushland.
- Why? Springtime winds, low humidity, and dry grass make it extremely easy for fires to spread.
- If you ignore these restrictions, you could face fines—but worse, you could start a wildfire that puts lives and property in danger.
If You Absolutely Must Burn, Take Precautions:
✔ Wait until after 6 p.m. when winds tend to calm down.
✔ Never burn on windy days. If you see tree branches swaying, it’s too risky.
✔ Keep water or a hose nearby. A fire can get out of control in seconds.
✔ Completely put out your fire before leaving. Stir the ashes and make sure everything is cold before walking away.
Why This Matters
Wildfires can spread in minutes. A single spark can ignite dry grass and brush, and before you know it, flames are moving toward homes, barns, and forests.
Wind makes fires unpredictable. Even if your fire seems small, a strong gust can carry embers into a neighbor’s yard or a nearby field.
Firefighters already have enough to handle. Every year, Ohio and Kentucky experience hundreds of wildfires, many of them started by avoidable outdoor burning.
How You Can Help Prevent Wildfires
✔ Follow burn bans and restrictions. They exist for a reason.
✔ Check the weather before burning. If it’s dry, windy, or unusually warm, wait for safer conditions.
✔ Keep fires small and contained. Burn far away from buildings, dry grass, and wooded areas.
✔ Never leave a fire unattended. Always have water, a hose, or a shovel nearby to put it out.
✔ Report any suspicious fires immediately. If you see an unattended or out-of-control fire, call 911 or your local fire department.
