The burning ban that has been in place for all of Pottawattamie County, Iowa has been lifted.
The extremely dry seasonal conditions prompted a three month burn ban for Pottawattamie County. County officials say the burn ban was a necessary tool to help reduce the potential for widespread, devastating fires throughout the county.
The Fire Departments in Pottawattamie County and the 9-1-1 Communications Center implemented automatic mutual aid procedures that gave firefighters an edge in responding to reported fires quickly and efficiently.
Although the ban is lifted, all citizens are urged to use caution whenever burning and to ensure they have water or other protective measures in place to prevent the spread of fires.
Those living within incorporated city limits should check with their local fire department or city clerk before burning. Some communities have their own ordinances that restrict or prohibit open burning throughout the year.
Anyone conducting a controlled burn is encouraged to report their burn, prior to ignition, by calling the 911 Communication Center’s NON-EMERGENCY number at 712-328-5737.