Consider AL burn ban before camping, barbecues

(WAFF) - Wildfires and drought are causing major problems and taxing resources across North Alabama. Officials said the burn ban will continue until the area experiences a significant rainfall.

Small downpours here and there don't make a significant difference as far as impacting the burn ban. Alabama's north regional forester, Terry Ezzell, said it's absolutely imperative that people follow the order.until we get through this.

Burn bans aren't enacted often. Ezzell said he can count the amount of times he's witnessed a burn ban in his career on one hand. Burning trash, debris, and brush fires are illegal right now. But Terry said people can still use grills and masonry barbecue pits.

There are consequences for those who don't cooperate with the burn ban. That can range anywhere from a warning to possible jail time.

"We take asking for a drought emergency or burn ban really seriously because we really don't want to hinder peoples' rights to do what they want to on their property," Ezzell said. "We only issue or enact a burn ban under very serious conditions. So if we deem it that serious, we hope the public deems it that serious."

The burn ban affects outdoor activities, such as camping. Officials urge folks to only camp in designated areas. They say illegal camping is detrimental to our parks and forests.

"There are rules and regulations to use our preserves. We offer 60 miles of nature trails for people to enjoy," said Cathie Mayne with Land Trust of North Alabama. "When folks camp, perhaps they don't care about the legalities. When they have a campfire in the drought, it's very bad."

Because of the burn ban, closed lanterns are fine, but no open flames like candles or Tiki torches are allowed.

Copyright 2016 WAFF. All rights reserved.