Fountain Inn Fire Department Urges Residents to Clear Debris Safely

Following the recent South Carolina Forestry Commission’s issuance of a statewide State Forester’s Burning Ban, that now has since lifted. The Fountain Inn Fire Department is issuing an urgent reminder to residents to clear lawn debris and secure their properties against elevated wildfire risks.

The mandatory ban, which went into effect Friday afternoon, prohibits all outdoor burning of yard debris, as well as campfires and bonfires in unincorporated areas. While the ban is primarily targeted at rural regions, Fountain Inn fire officials are asking city residents to be equally vigilant due to dangerously low humidity and gusty winds that have turned common lawn clutter into potential “kindling.”

The Danger in Your Backyard

Fire Chief Russell Alexander noted that recent weather patterns—including a lack of significant rainfall and high wind speeds—have created a volatile environment where a single spark can lead to a rapidly spreading fire.

“We are seeing extremely dry conditions across the Upstate,” Chief Alexander stated. “Lawn debris like fallen branches, dried leaves, and pine needles are essentially fuel waiting for a heat source. Clearing these materials away from your home’s foundation is one of the most effective ways to protect your property.”

Safety Guidelines for Debris Removal

The Fire Department recommends that residents utilize the city’s scheduled yard waste pickup rather than attempting to burn or store large piles of debris.

• Maintain a 10-foot ‘Fire Zone’: Clear all flammable vegetation, including dead leaves and overgrown brush, within at least 10 feet of any structure.

• Clean Gutters and Roofs: Wind-blown embers can easily ignite dry leaves trapped in gutters or on rooftops.

• Proper Disposal: Bag or bundle your yard waste according to city guidelines for curbside collection. Do not pile debris near utility poles or under low-hanging power lines.

• Check Your Equipment: If using a lawnmower or weed eater to clear brush, ensure the equipment is well-maintained to prevent sparks. Never refuel a hot engine.

Understanding the Ban

While the statewide ban restricts debris and recreational fires, it does not currently apply to outdoor cooking on grills or fires contained within permanent fire pits that conform to state fire codes. However, fire officials still urge extreme caution when using any outdoor heat source.

“Escaped debris burns are the number one cause of wildfires in South Carolina,” the Forestry Commission reminded the public this week. “During a ban, the goal is to limit ignitions to the maximum extent possible.”

Monitoring and Reporting

The Fountain Inn Fire Department, which recently added a state-of-the-art engine equipped with the HAAS Alert system to its fleet, is on high alert for any signs of smoke or brush fires.

Residents who spot a fire are urged to call 911 immediately. For more information on local burning ordinances or to check the status of the burning ban, residents can visit the City of Fountain Inn’s official website or follow the Fire Department on social media.