Shelby County is entering its Spring Fire Season. Emergency Management Coordinator Bob Seivert says there is an abundance of dead material that is in the process of fully drying out. With limited access to fields due to thawing conditions, Seivert says they are going to start their bi-weekly updates to our Fire Danger Boards. Updates are Tuesday, and Thursday of each week.  From now through Thursday, Seivert is asking local businesses and fire departments to place their “Fire Danger” Boards into the MODERATE category. The next update on fire conditions will be Thursday morning.

Shelby County has four color coded distinct levels:

LOW – You are asked to call in and report your burning projects to dispatch at 712-755-2124, and notify your local Fire Chief.
Moderate – You are asked to call in and report your burning projects to dispatch at 712-755-2124, and notify your local Fire Chief. Timing for burns should be morning, or evening hours and extinguished by dark unless authorized by Fire Chief due to possible impacts to roads and health from smoke. Burns must be monitored at all times.
High – Burning of any kind is restricted unless approval is received from local Fire Chief. Controlled burns that are not reported will result in Fire Department being dispatched, and fires extinguished if determined to be un-safe. Please call 712-755-2124 with questions.
Extreme – Burning is prohibited, unless you have a signed permit from the local Fire Chief. Fires on Extreme days can grow rapidly and pose a risk to the Health and Safety of the Community. Citations can be issued if burning without permission.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact the Shelby County Emergency Management Agency at 712-755-2124.