In response to a large number of inquiries, yes, the “Fire Alert” does remain in effect for the state, including of course, Cherokee County.

Residents of Cherokee County have been wondering if they should hold up on burning their leaves or limbs, or they have questions about having bonfires or fire pits – being somewhat unsure of what the exact definition of a “Fire Alert” actually is.

Matt Woodfin, with the local division of the Alabama Forestry Commission, recently paid a visit to the WEIS Radio studios to hopefully clear up things:

And bear in mind the very small amount of rainfall that we’ve seen recently has had little to no effect on the situation.  We’ll need a substantial amount of rain to make any appreciable impact.  The burning restriction was issued because of the current drought situation, continued lack of precipitation, and high probability of fuel ignition.  Anyone that burns – including fields, grasslands, woodlands or whatever the case – without a burn permit, may be subject to prosecution for committing a Class B misdemeanor.  With this extremely dry weather, conditions are such that any fire can quickly spread out of control – destroying property and more importantly, threatening lives.

For more information call the Alabama Forestry Commission locally at – (256) 563-0021 or (256) 459-1000 or visit them on-line at www.forestry.alabama.gov