TAVARES — The Lake County Public Safety Department has rescinded the countywide burn ban, enacted on Feb. 21 in accordance with Lake County Code 10.5-75.

According to John Jolliff, Director/Fire Chief for the Public Safety Department, Lake County's Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) indicates that 85% of the County is below 500, which is the consideration point for burning restrictions.

“Lake County Fire Rescue extends our gratitude to all citizens who supported the countywide burn ban,” wrote Jolliff in a memorandum to the County Manager. “It is always our intention to keep our residents and visitors safe from fire.”

Lake County Fire Rescue continuously monitors atmospheric conditions with regard to changes that could increase wildfire activity. Citizens are encouraged to continue to observe safe fire practices which include:

• Refrain from burning yard waste when high winds are present.
• Ensure all fires are completely extinguished prior to leaving them unattended.
• Never leave active fires unattended, and have a means of extinguishing the fire close by (i.e. – garden hose or fire extinguisher)
• Continue to re-check any fire areas for several days following extinguishment to ensure it doesn’t rekindle.

For more information about burning regulations and wildfire prevention, call the Lake County Public Safety Department at 352-343-9458.