HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-13-2012 South Bend Fire Department Warn Residents of Severe Dry Weather Conditions SpU TH 8F
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CITY OF SOUTH BEND
PETE BUTTIGIEG, MAYOR
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 13, 2012
Contact:Debra Johnson,Director of Communications
Phone: 574-235-5853
SOUTH BEND FIRE DEPARTMENT WARN RESIDENTS
OF SEVERE DRY WEATHER CONDITIONS
SOUTH BEND The South Bend Fire Department is warning residents to be mindful of
the severe dry weather conditions in the area, which increases the risk of fires.
According to the U.S.Drought Monitor Map released on Thursday of last week,many
parts of northern Indiana have abnormally high drought conditions.Due to high winds,
little rain, and dry conditions,residents are warned to avoid using any ignition source that
can potentially start a fire.
A special weather statement has been posted on AccuWeather.com,warning that any
burning is not safe during this period of dry weather. Reports of grass fires have been
increasing since the weekend and with no rain through the next seven days,the dry
conditions will only get worse and increase the risk of fires.
Eleven northeastern Indiana counties are experiencing moderate drought while the City
of South Bend is in a severe drought. The Fire Department would like to notify residents
that any ignition source can potentially spark fires. These include fireworks,pit burnings
and any open flame.
"If residents intend to burn,the Fire Department advises having a garden hose or fire
extinguisher nearby," said Fire Marshal Federico Rodriguez. "Also, supervise children
while playing and keep them away from matches, fireworks or any ignition source."
Attached is a map of the current drought index from National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration.This map is issued once a week and it designates areas in the community
in severe and moderate drought. For more information,contact Fire Marshal Federico
Rodriguez at 574-235-7564.
1400 COUNTY-CITY BUILDING- 227 W.IEFFERSON BOULEVARD-SOUTH BEND,INDIANA 46601
PHONE 574/235-9261 FAx 574/235-9892