Holiday flames

doused by state
By Melanie Davis
melanie@highcountrymedia.net

The statewide burning ban remains in effect and may hinder a holiday tradition.

The N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources issued a statement Monday reminding citizens of the burn ban, which includes luminaries.

Luminaries are a popular holiday tradition that involves placing a burning candle inside a paper bag filled with a small amount of sand as a lawn or porch decoration.

A holiday tradition dating back to the 16th century, luminaries are also called “farolitos,” the Spanish word for little lanterns.

The luminaries are a symbol for guiding travelers to their destination, a reference to the biblical tale of Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging.

For those who participate in this holiday tradition, however, this year an electric luminary would be a good choice.

Due to extreme drought conditions, the possibility of high winds, and the lack of rainfall needed to replenish water supplies for fighting fire, the luminaries could pose a very high threat to the area.

The statewide burn ban has been in effect since October for the area, and officials see no end in sight.

The state has experienced more wildfires than average during 2007, with more than 94 fires, damaging 698 acres since Dec. 1.

Three acres were destroyed by arson one week ago in Watauga County.

A fire in the Sampson community kept firefighters from four agencies busy last Tuesday. In about four hours the blaze was under control.

The dry conditions allowed the fire to spread more rapidly than usual.

“Quick response time and cooperation from all the fire departments involved really paid off,” N.C. forest ranger Rudy Johnson said.

In connection with the statewide burning ban, Watauga County fire marshal Steve Sudderth has issued a county burn ban.

This ban encompasses the 100 feet surrounding an occupied dwelling, which is not covered by the statewide ban.

“The objective is to prevent property damage or, worst of all, injury and death,” Sudderth said.

Local fire departments and law enforcement, as well as officers of the N.C. Wildlife Resource Commission and the N.C. Division of Forest Resources will be assisting the fire marshal’s office in enforcement.

A violation of the burn ban may result in a fine of up to $100 and court costs.

For more information contact the Watauga County Fire Marshal’s office at (828) 264-4235.