Chief Jason Perry announces that the Berkley Fire and Rescue Department has issued a temporary ban on all outdoor burning.
Recent dry, windy conditions have provided optimal conditions for brush fires. A number of communities across the region are dealing with ongoing wildfires. This policy announcement is a reflection of that reality.
Here is the text of Chief Perry’s letter:
Due to the continued Red Flag warnings for heightened fire danger in Massachusetts with the dry conditions, the Fire Chief is issuing a temporary ban on all outdoor fires. The ban includes all recreational and cooking fires in fire pits and chimneys.
The Executive Office of Public Safety & Security, Department of Conservation & Recreation, Department of Fire Services, Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, and Fire Chiefs Association of Massachusetts are urging residents to remain vigilant as current weather conditions make dry leaves, dead vegetation, and other materials extremely flammable.
Officials recommend the following precautions:
- Observe the statewide open burning prohibition, effective through January 15th.
- Avoid outdoor cooking or heating with wood or charcoal as sparks and embers can easily ignite surrounding dry vegetation and debris.
- Exercise caution with gas power equipment like lawnmowers, leaf blowers, etc. Heat from the engines of this equipment may ignite dry grass and leaves.
- Properly dispose of fireplace and wood stove ashes by placing them in a metal container, soaking them with water, and sealing with a tight-fitting lid.
- Extinguish all smoking materials completely in a sturdy ash tray with water or sand. Never discard any smoking materials in dry areas that could potentially start a fire.
This temporary ban is essential to prevent further incidents and protect our community during this period of heightened fire danger. This ban will remain in effect until further notice by the Fire Chief.
Jason Perry
Fire Chief