Local fire departments monitor conditions as wildfires continue across Palmetto State

NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. (WJBF) – The burn ban is staying in effect in South Carolina, as wildfires continue across the Palmetto State.

That’s why local fire departments are keeping an eye on the danger and staying alert.

We spoke with Sergeant Daniel Smith with North Augusta Public Safety.

“The state for the past few days has been burning inward from both ends, from the coast and the upstate. So, it’s always great to take heed when things like that are happening around you—because it can just as easily happen here,” said Smith.

The state fire marshal confirmed over the weekend there are more than 175 wildfires with ongoing operations. 

North Augusta Public Safety responded to a brush fire over the weekend, but they say there are no active wildfires in the area.

While the CSRA is not in the danger zone, fire officials say the air quality is cause for concern.

“Fortunately at this exact moment, the majority of the wind is pushed through, but we’re looking for moisture to come back in our area to keep the volatility with any debris wanting to burn. In times like this when the humidity is extremely low and such a dry air mass is in place, it heightens the chances for any controlled burn to get out of control very quickly and spread to unwanted areas,” Smith said.

The Burn Ban was put in place on March 1st, prohibiting all outdoor burning—including yard debris, prescribed burning, and campfires.

“Any synthetic material shouldn’t be burned. The South Carolina Forestry Commission does a great job of explaining what yard debris is, and what is allowed to be burned. A reminder for the city of North Augusta that debris burning is not allowed by city ordinance,” said Smith.

As Public Safety continues to keep an eye on weather conditions, they’re also making sure the community is doing their part by heeding the warnings. 

“We’re just pushing out to the public to look out for your open burning right now. The community does a great job of taking care of things like that. So, for the department specifically—we can continue doing business as normal, because this is a great community to serve,” Smith added.

Governor McMaster has said the burn ban will stay in effect until further notice. 

Firefighters are warning the community to avoid any burning at all costs, and call 9-1-1 if there are any immediate threats.