SC Emergency Management Division

Think before you burn, y'all... It's been nearly three weeks since most parts of South Carolina have experienced significant, widespread precipitation; in fact, the State Climatology Office confirms no rainfall was recorded statewide October 19–25. South Carolina remains in a significant drought; approximately 75% of the state is abnormally dry or experiencing drought, and more than a quarter is in severe drought. Dry vegetation, fallen leaves and pine straw can ignite easily, and even a small outdoor fire can quickly escape, even without high winds. The South Carolina Forestry Commission urges everyone to use extra caution when burning outdoors. State law requires citizens outside of city limits to notify the Forestry Commission before burning, but also check weather conditions, have water and firefighting tools readily available, never leave a fire unattended, and make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. Think Before You Burn!

It's National Fire Prevention Month! We're here with a simple reminder to THINK BEFORE YOU BURN to prevent wildfires. Hurricane Helene swept through South Carolina two years ago, leaving stands of downed trees and woody debris covering the landscape. These downed fuels increase the risk of wildfire by making ignition and spread more likely and also block access for firefighters, which slows response times. If you plan on conducting any kind of outdoor burning, please follow these reminders and exercise the utmost caution! 1. Don’t burn if you don’t absoutely have to. • Consider bagging your yard debris and taking it to a landfill. 2. Check the weather. • Wait until later to burn if it's windy outside, especially if relative humidity is low and/or it's been a while since good, soaking rain. 3. Notify the Forestry Commission before burning yard debris. It’s required by state law! • Use our online system or call your county's toll-free notification line, both available at scfc.gov/notify. 4. Take the proper precautions: • Limit the fire to woody, vegetative material like leaves, limbs and branches. • Clear a firebreak around the fire (at least as wide as the burn pile itself). • Have water and tools at hand to keep the fire under control. • Never leave the burn for any amount of time, and stay with the fire until it is completely out, preferably drowned out with water.