The Jackson County Commissioners put a burn ban in place today because of the risk of widespread fire hazards related to ongoing drought conditions.

During the emergency ban, certain burning activities will be prohibited within the county, including but not limited to the following:

• Campfires and other recreational fires, unless enclosed in a fire ring with a diameter of 23 inches and a depth of 6 inches or larger
• Open burning of any kind using conventional fuel, such as wood or other combustible matter, with the exception of grills fueled by charcoal briquettes or propane
• The burning of debris, such as timber for vegetation, including such debris that results from building construction activities and other open-air fires
• The use of burn barrels for any open burning at residential structures.

Since Sept. 1, just 0.18 inches of rain have fallen in the Brownstown area, according to the Brownstown Central High School weather station.

During an emergency burn ban, all residents are called upon and directed to comply with necessary emergency measures to cooperate with public officials and emergency management forces in executing emergency plans and to obey and comply with the lawful directions of properly identified officers.

This declaration will remain in effect until further notice.