MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
KINGMAN COUNTY, Kan. — Officials have issued burn bans across Kingman County and the Cheney Fire Department response area because of extremely dry and potentially dangerous fire conditions.
Kingman County commissioners unanimously approved a countywide burn ban during a special meeting Tuesday afternoon. The ban will remain in effect for 14 days and is scheduled to be reevaluated during the commission’s regular meeting Sept. 14.
The Cheney Fire Department also implemented a burn ban effective immediately Wednesday, Sept. 2. It applies to the city of Cheney and the Erie, Morton and Grand River townships.
Kingman County’s order covers the department’s response area in Evan and Vinita townships.
In addition, Sedgwick County Fire District No. 1 has also issued a burn ban.
Officials said higher-than-normal temperatures, low humidity, windy conditions and extremely dry vegetation have increased the danger of rapidly spreading grass fires.
Outdoor burning is prohibited, including open fires, chimeneas and other outdoor fireplaces. Existing burn permits are suspended, and no new permits will be issued while the bans remain in effect.
Fires used for food preparation, including barbecue grills, are exempt.
Officials said violations could result in citations. The Cheney Fire Department will continue monitoring conditions and will lift its ban when fire danger significantly improves.