Dickson Fire Department closely monitoring citywide conditions for burning, fireworks

The City of Dickson Fire Department is closely monitoring weather conditions and urges residents to use extreme caution in doing any outdoor burning and in using fireworks.

“We are not to the point yet where we believe it is necessary to issue a ban on outdoor burning, but we are quickly approaching that point,” said Dickson Fire Department Chief Richard Greer. “Due to the lack of rainfall, high temperatures and low humidity causing dry conditions, we are evaluating the risk of fire on a day-to-day basis and want residents to be forewarned that if conditions get to that point we will issue a ban on outdoor burning. Such a ban could include the use of fireworks until conditions are safer.”

While outdoor burning permits are still being issued by the fire department, Greer urges anyone doing any burning to follow all safety precautions, including monitoring fires at all times, having an adequate water supply or other fire suppression method available, clearing an area around a fire site of all combustible materials and making sure fires are completely extinguished.

“An outdoor burning ban is an extreme measure that the city would take only when deemed necessary for the protection of lives and property,” said Fire Marshal Robby Street. “With the Independence Day holiday approaching, we want residents to be extremely cautious in the use of fireworks and to realize that you are responsible for any damage they might cause.”

The Dickson Municipal Code requires residents of the city to obtain a permit from the fire department prior to any outdoor burning. The permits are free but allow the department to monitor conditions and control when and where burning takes place. Permits can be obtained by calling the department at 615-446-6331.

The code also restricts the sale and use of fireworks inside the City of Dickson to 10:00 am-10:30 pm June 20-July 5. Fireworks may not be discharged within 600 feet of a church, assisted living facility, nursing home, funeral home, hospital or public school or within 200 feet of any location where fireworks are sold. Fireworks may not be thrown or launched from any moving vehicle or onto any private property without the owner’s consent.

Residents outside the City of Dickson should consult with their local fire department or the Tennessee Division of Forestry at burnsafetn.org for information on outdoor burning.