While no burn bans are in effect, officials are advising extreme caution with any open burning or controlled burns.
The Bremer County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) and Bremer County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) reported a total seven “controlled” burns getting out of control Wednesday (01.29), with a half-dozen within about an hour’s time. Various Fire Departments were kept busy trying to extinguish them.
BCSO said in a Facebook post, “We understand with the warmer temperatures people are getting spring fever, but please use common sense and don’t burn when it’s windy. You are responsible for any damage including utilities in the right of ways.”
Bremer County EMA reminds residents that Bremer County is still in a Moderate Drought level. Much of the region has been rated in moderate drought or, at best, abnormally dry for at least a month.
The Marble Rock Fire Department (MRFD)says they were out Wednesday afternoon for a small field fire. There were no injuries or damage.
MRFD said in a Facebook post, “It is VERY, VERY, dry out there folks. It takes almost nothing for vegetation to burn and fire to spread right now, not something we usually have to think about this time of year! Please be safe if you’re doing any outdoor burning!”
The Rockford Fire Department (RFD) assisted MRFD and said in their own social media post, “Open burning is not advised, recommended, or wise! It is very dry. THINK before you strike that match. Each call removes a Volunteer Firefighter from work, costs tax prayers dollars, and elevates the possibility of injury to those volunteering to protect our communities. Cooperation would be appreciated.”
The Cresco Fire Department reported responding to at least five grass fires due to open burning that got out of control.
