Tennessee Wildfire Season is here

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- It’s fall and leaves are changing and falling.

That means that you might have some yard work that needs to be done.

Well, today’s the day, it’s the first day of the Tennessee Wildfire Season and even though we don’t see many wildfires here in East Tennessee, the Chattanooga Fire Department has some tips and warnings before you burn those pesky fall leaves.”

Chattanooga Fire Chief Phil Hyman says, “We have a burn season for a reason and people have to really pay attention to that. The winds do pick up in the fall, things dry out a lot and it causes a lot of problems.”

From today until May 15th, anyone starting an open-air fire in Tennessee within 500 feet of a forest, grassland or woodland must have a burn permit.

Burn Permits can be purchased with The Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s Division of Forestry online for free.

Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance suggests that you stay with all outdoor fires until they are completely out.

Keep water and hand tools ready in case the fire attempts to spread and be aware of where your smoke is going.

Kevin Walters says, “Stay abreast of wildfire danger levels and to be cognizant of burn bans in your community. So, if there is a burn ban. Don’t burn that day and always follow rules and get a burn permit before you burn anything.”

To find out if the city of Chattanooga is under a no burn day, click here.