June 1, 2018                                                                                                                                                           New Release

Contact: Brian Culp 505-573-1704, brian.culp@co.valencia.nm.us

Valencia County Fire Department Announces Burn Ban within the unincorporated areas of Valencia County

Due to the extreme fire danger, the Valencia County Fire Department, is announcing a burn ban within the unincorporated areas of Valencia County, New Mexico. Fire danger throughout the state and within Valencia County is high due to warm temperatures, low humidity, high winds and the abundance of dry, fine fuels. The restrictions will go into effect on June 2, 2018 and will remain in effect for 45 days. The ban may be extended if evidence that the fire danger continues.

“With the announcement from the State of New Mexico that they are placing burn restrictions on state-owned lands and with the continued fire danger that we face, banning all open burning within the unincorporated areas of Valencia County will help to protect lives and property from this fire danger that we are facing,” said Fire Chief Brian Culp. “We have already gone several weeks without a burn day within the county and with the continued dry conditions, high winds and the probability that we will not receive any significate rainfall any time soon, placing a burn ban is needed.”

It is also encouraged not to smoke, except in enclosed building, within vehicles equipped with ashtrays, and on paved or surfaced roads, developed recreation sites, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.

Also during this time we encourage not to conduct welding outside without a water source and clearing the area around the site of all flammable materials to reduce the fire danger when welding.

“With the 4th of July coming up we would also encourage all residents to use only “Safe and Sane” fireworks, No Stick-type rockets, helicopters and aerial spinners, missile-type rockets, ground audible devices firecrackers and display fireworks are prohibited within the unincorporated areas of the county,” said County Fire Chief Culp.

Valencia County residents can report illegal burning by calling 505-865-2039.