LOWER MERION TOWNSHIP, PA \u2014 Open flames in Lower Merion Township will be banned for 30 days starting Friday.<\/p>\n
Township officials Thursday said a 30-day burn ban will go into effect Friday.<\/p>\n
The ban will last until April 14.<\/p>\n
During the ban, open fires, including recreational fire pits and fireworks, within Lower Merion Township are prohibited.<\/p>\n
Officials enacted the ban due to the extended period of dry conditions affecting Lower Merion Township and the potential for uncontrollable fire spread and wildfires.<\/p>\n
All Lower Merion Township issued recreational fire permits will be revoked during the burn ban.<\/p>\n
Lower Merion Fire Chief James McCoy Told Patch first-time violators will be issued a warning notification and receive education on the potential dangers of open fires during a burn ban. Any subsequent violations can come with a fine, with the amount being decided on by the local court.<\/p>\n
“Our big thing is limiting any accidental opportunities to cause fires,” he said<\/p>\n
McCoy urged members of the public to be conscientious about their potential impact on starting brush fires, such as tossing lit cigarette butts or allowing embers from grilling to spread.<\/p>\n
McCoy said this spring is particularly ripe for potential brush fires due to the dry winter and the dry fall and summer in 2024.<\/p>\n
Battling a brush fire can prove difficult for first responders depending on the location.<\/p>\n
In November 2024, Lower Merion firefighters battled brush fires along the Cynwyd Heritage trail.<\/a> These fires broke out during a 30-day burn ban enacted by the township.<\/a><\/p>\n