As wildfires have been burning within the Essex region, the Marblehead Fire Department, among other departments, has called for an outdoor fire ban.
The Marblehead Fire Department called for the fire ban on Nov. 13 that will remain in place till the end of the week on Friday.
The recent historically low rainfall, combined with windy conditions, have contributed to the spread of wildfires. These dry conditions can help create a fire with something as small as a cigarette butt.
Marblehead Fire Chief Jason Gilliland stated “Every firefighter battling a preventable wildfire is one who can’t respond to a house fire, car crash, or medical emergency.” Gilliland further expressed the need for the public’s help in preventing any further fires.
According to Chief Gilliland, the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services, and the Department of Conservation & Recreation’s Bureau of Forest Fire Control & Forestry, these fires almost always begin due to human activity. By stopping all outdoor activities involving open flames, hot engines, or other ignition sources, further fires can be prevented.
The Fire Department also added the sooner they hear about a fire, the sooner they can put it out. They urge all community members to call 911 if flames or smoke are seen.
The Marblehead Fire Department refused to comment on the fire ban as of Monday and has not commented since the initial notice on Nov. 13.