FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012

NOTE: This version has been corrected for time period.

N.C. Forest Service urges residents not to burn debris

RALEIGH — The N.C. Forest Service is encouraging residents not to burn yard debris, due to the potential for increased fire danger.

Despite recent rainfall on portions of the state, the National Weather Service and the N.C. Forest Service are forecasting increased fire danger for the entire state today due to high pressure building in from the north that will usher in much dryer air. The relative humidity levels are expected to drop across most of the state, and the northwest winds will average 15 mph with gusts to near 20 mph.

“These conditions, combined with low fuel moisture, create an enhanced fire threat,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Residents are urged to exercise caution as any ignition of dry grass or tree litter will have the potential to spread quickly.”

The National Weather Service and the N.C. Forest Service will continue to monitor precipitation amounts, wind speeds, relative humidity and atmospheric stability.

This year, 1,161 wildfires have burned more than 4,364 acres across the state. Careless burning of debris remains the leading cause of wildfires in North Carolina. Residents should always exercise caution when burning debris, especially during the spring fire season, which typically begins in mid-March and goes until mid-May.

For more information on ways you can prevent wildfires and loss of property, go to www.ncforestservice.gov and click on “fire control” and follow the links, or contact Brian Haines, public information officer with the N.C. Forest Service, at 919-857-4828.

-brh-1