While on routine patrol last month, Chester police spotted a large plume of smoke emitting from an undisclosed address near Veterans Boulevard (Route 8) and responded to check it out. After arriving at the undisclosed address —fearing it could be a structure or brush fire — the officer encountered the property owner, who was burning a large amount of brush. At that time, the officer called back for dispatch that it was a controlled burn; however, with this latest announcement, this would be no longer be allowed to drought conditions until further notice at the county level. (Photo by Stephanie Ujhelyi)

NEW CUMBERLAND — In response to the numerous brush fires throughout Columbiana and Hancock counties as well as neighboring communities, , Hancock County Commissioners issued a press release Saturday, prohibiting all outdoor burning throughout its jurisdiction.

Effective immediately, all outdoor burning activities, including open fire pits, are strictly prohibited until further notice. The statement reads: “This measure is essential to safeguard our community and protect our firefighters who have already battled brush fires in the Tri-State area.”

Individuals found violating the order, which also disallows the burning of brush, vegetation and trash, will not only have their fire extinguished but will be subject to fines and costs related to response.

Commission President Jeff Davis urged all residents to remain vigilant and report any information of open burning to authorities in order to protection area residents.

On Saturday, the Wellsville Volunteer Fire Department had to cancel its planned chili cookoff due to staff as well as another nine departments having to respond to a brush fire.

Statewide, West Virginia was already under an open burning ban between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. Oct. 1 through Dec. 31. Burning permits were required and fires attended until completely extinguished. Officials previously allowed small cooking fires for food and the burning of leaves, brush and yard clippings.

If the fire does escape in West Virginia, there is a penalty if it escapes the mandatory 10-foot wide safety strip, damaging another person’s land of a minimum $100 fine plus a $200 civil penalty. Fines can be as high as $1,000.

Ohio, for example, has been under a statewide burn prohibiting outdoor open burning from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the months of October and November. This applies even to burning yard waste, trash and debris a burn barrel.

The penalty for open burning in Ohio depends on the severity of the violation, starting at a fine up to $500 and 60 days in jail if the offender is convicted of the third-degree misdemeanor for violating wildlife prevention laws or being fined up to $25,000 and four years in prison for recklessly open burning solid waste.

To resport violations in Ohio, call the Division of Forestry at 877-247-8733. In West Virginia call 304-558-2788, option 9.