COLUMBIA COUNTY, Fla. – The Lake City Fire Department has put a countywide burn ban in effect due to extreme drought conditions currently affecting the area.
Ret Tompkins, assistant chief and fire inspector for the Lake City Fire Department, talked about the restriction, citing elevated wildfire risk as the primary concern.
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“Due to the extreme drought conditions currently affecting our area, a county-wide burn ban is now in effect,” Tompkins said. “This action has been implemented in an effort to reduce the risk of wildfires and protect the safety of our community, residents, businesses, and emergency personnel.”
As part of the ban, no firework tent permits will be issued. The restriction will remain in place until sufficient rainfall occurs and conditions improve enough for the burn ban to be safely lifted.
The department is also strongly recommending that no fireworks be sold at any location within city limits during this period.
“While we understand the importance these events and sales may have for businesses and residents, public safety must remain our highest priority,” Tompkins said.
Officials say the situation could be revisited if weather conditions improve significantly, but for now, the ban stays in place.