WEST CHESTER, PA — Chester County officials have officially lifted the burn ban on open fires following a unanimous vote by Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Eric Roe. The decision, made Monday at a specially scheduled public meeting, followed a recommendation from Chester County Department of Emergency Services Director Bill Messerschmidt, citing reduced fire dangers after recent wet weather.
The ban, initially introduced in late October and extended in November, was rescinded through Resolution BOC-58-24. According to Messerschmidt, “Following a period of wet weather, the risk of fire danger has decreased across Chester County, allowing us to remove a ban on open fires.” However, he cautioned that while rainfall has alleviated fire risks, precipitation levels remain below average.
Impact of the Burn Ban
The ban, enacted on October 27 due to sustained drought conditions, was a response to minimal rainfall over a two-month period. During the ban, Chester County faced significant fire activity, recording 166 brush fires, 73 mulch and trash fires, and one civilian fire fatality linked to a brush fire. These numbers, Messerschmidt noted, were unusually high for the season, despite the restrictions.
Chester County officials commended the public for complying with the ban, which helped to mitigate further fire incidents and reduce strain on first responders. “We appreciate the support of the public during the burn ban, knowing that if it was not in place, the number of fires would have been much greater, placing a tremendous burden on our first responders,” Messerschmidt added.
Looking Forward
While the burn ban is no longer in effect, officials continue to urge residents to remain cautious with open fires as precipitation levels recover. Chester County officials emphasized the importance of community cooperation in managing fire safety and protecting local resources. The decision to lift the ban reflects the progress made following community efforts and improved weather conditions.
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