The Mississippi Forestry Commission (MFC) recently announced burn bans for Simpson County and 13 other counties in Mississippi because of drought conditions in these areas.
The ban against open fires in Simpson County will be in effect through March 17 and may be extended if necessary.
During this period, open outdoor fires are not permitted, including campfires, bonfires, fire pits and fire rings, burn barrels, the burning of debris and field burning.
Use of propane or gas grills and heaters is permitted, as are charcoal grills.
Wildfires are a danger during times of drought, and floating ash and sparks can take the fire far away from the original burn site. Several such fires have already been reported in the county.
