Effective at 10:00 a.m. today, Linda Casey, State Forester of Alabama, rescinded the Fire Alert for all 67 Alabama counties. According to officials with the Alabama Forestry Commission, the state has received enough rain over the last couple of weeks to reduce the threat of wildfire. The rain, combined with lower temperatures and milder conditions has provided enough moisture in ground fuels to justify lifting the Fire Alert. 
   

Mrs. Casey reminds everyone that the state is still experiencing abnormally dry conditions and to use all necessary safety precautions when doing any type of burning. The Commission will continue to monitor weather conditions throughout the state. If ground fuels become exceptionally dry again, it may be necessary to re-issue a Fire Alert in the affected areas.

Under Alabama law, a burn permit is required for all forestry and agricultural burns, except fires smaller than 1/4 acre if it is more than 25 feet from a forested area. However, the burner is still responsible for the fire.

In general, the permit means the burner has the manpower and equipment to control the fire and agrees to stay with the fire until it is out. Burning permits may be obtained by calling the Alabama Forestry Commission at 1-800-392-5679.   
   

There are some county and city laws that also restrict outdoor burning. Burners are responsible for contacting their local government for additional information.

Also, rescinding of the Fire Alert does not remove the restrictions in place prohibiting open fires for Alabama's four national forests. Additional information about the National Forests’ "no open fires" order can be found at: http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/alabama/

For more information contact any Alabama Forestry Commission county office or visit the Commission web page at www.forestry.alabama.gov.