After a rainy October, a November with clear skies and temperatures peaking in the mid-70s is a welcome sight for residents eager to get their hands dirty doing yard work.
Burning leaves is a task at the top of many people’s lists. Area fire districts are asking residents to take notice, though. While autumn is the time for foliage to change colors and leaves to drop from trees, those districts don’t want autumn to be known as the season for uncontrollable brush fires.
Two weeks into November, area districts have issued hundreds of controlled burn permits. They’ve each also responded to several small out-of-control fires and smoke investigations.
So far, none of the fires have been large or caused much damage. The message is still clear though - pay attention.
Lake Ozark Fire Protection District Chief Mark Amsinger said even if it rains one day, gusty winds the next dries out the fallen leaves a lot quicker.
While people may think it’s the perfect opportunity to burn their pile of leaves, Amsinger said that’s not always the case. Extremely dry leaves spread fire a lot quicker, and if there’s wind, the gusts can fan flames.
The district won’t issue burn permits if the wind is above 10 mph or the humidity is too low. One day last week, 130 permits were issued through the automated phone line at 365-6407, which issues controlled burn permits for Lake Ozark, Osage Beach and Sunrise Beach fire protection districts.
Amsinger said what’s best for the entire 200 square miles the automated phone covers is considered when allowing open burn days.
Just because it’s not windy where they’re at, doesn’t mean it’s not windy on the other side of the point or across the cove, Amsinger said. Permits are issued when it’s safe for the entire area.
The National Weather Service is predicting temperatures in the mid-70s through Sunday. However, wind gusts as high as 25 mph will make it unlikely that burn permits will be issued for the next several days unless conditions become more favorable.
Amsinger said it was important for people to remember that they were responsible for their fire, especially if it gets out of their control.
Office/burn permit numbers
Camdenton Fire
346-6260
346-3262
Eldon Fire
392-9111
Lake Ozark Fire
365-5371
• 365-6407
Mid-County Fire
346-2049
Gravois Fire at Morgan County Dispatch
378-5481
Osage Beach Fire
348-1221
• 365-6407
Sunrise Beach Fire
• 365-6407
When calling, be prepared leave information such as:
• Confirmation that it is a burn day
• Location of burn
• Name and phone number
• Description of materials being burned
deanna.wheeler@lakesunonline.com
Lake of the Ozarks, Mo. —
