Garfield County issues Critical Fire Danger warning through next Monday

The Enid/Garfield County Emergency Management Office has issued a Critical Fire Danger warning over the next four to five days.

Starting on Wednesday, Garfield County will be in an Elevated to Critical Fire Danger through at least next Monday. This will pertain to most of the western half of the state, the Office said.

Very strong southerly winds, along with low humidity and still very dry vegetation, are the ingredients needed for very dangerous fire conditions. All it will take is a spark and nature will definitely run its course.

As of Wednesday morning, the Office of Emergency Management for Enid and Garfield County is asking that there be NO BURNING AT ALL FOR THE NEXT 4 to 5 DAYS BECAUSE OF THESE DANGEROUS CONDITIONS.

If a fire is lit, gets out of control, and burns another resident’s property, the fire starter will be liable for damages and possibly have to pay for the response. That would be extremely expensive.

“We are not in a Burn Ban,  thus we can’t stop you from burning, but common sense should kick in and control that desire,” the office said.

“We are asking all residents to be on a heightened state of alert for smoke and fire. If you see any smoke or fire, we ask that you call 911 immediately so response can be dispatched,” the Office stated. “It won’t take long for fire to travel across the countryside with the forecast winds. This request goes for anywhere you may be in the state.

Temperatures are expected to cool down over the weekend due to a cold front that will push through on Friday. Storm chances for the area are very low and no severe weather is expected. Based on guidance at this time, the severe threat looks to be east of I-35.