Nothing brings to mind memories of past autumns like the smell of burning leaves, but Perry residents are quickly running out of time for the open burning of yard waste materials because the window on open burning closes Sunday, Nov. 19.
Lois Coleman of Perry took advantage of Thursday’s calm winds and crisp temperatures to burn a few small piles at her home at 1310 Pattee St.
“I’ve loved burning leaves ever since I was a child,” said Coleman, who worked 49 years as a legal secretary in the Willis Sackett law offices in Perry before retiring. “But I only burn from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. because that’s what the ordinance says.”
Coleman still knows the laws. All burning must take place between the hours of 10 a.m. and sundown and is restricted to private property. Burning must also take place in the rear of the property and must be supervised at all times.
In addition, all burning must take place at least 30 feet from any building inhabited by persons other than the landowner or tenant who is doing the open burning.
The city of Perry also offers the following tips for safely burning yard waste:
Safety tips for open burning
- Never use gasoline, kerosene or any other flammable liquid to start the fire.
- Do not leave a fire unattended.
- Have fire extinguishment materials on hand, including a water supply, shovels and rakes.
- Be prepared to extinguish your fire if the wind picks up.
- Do not delay a call for help. Call the Perry Volunteer Fire Department immediately at the first sign of the fire getting out of control.
Skipped the rear-of-the-property part apparently!