Jamestown Rural Fire Department crews respond to an April 2021 fire, one of several this year so far in the region. Photo: Jamestown Rural Fire Department

JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – A drought stricken North Dakota continues to see high temperatures and dry conditions this summer.

With that comes high fire risks in the state and locally.

Jamestown Rural Fire Department Chief Brian Paulson says they’ve already doubled their calls for grass fires in 2021 than they did all of last year.

Stutsman County has a burn ordinance that is in effect 365 days a year. However, it restricts burning only when the Fire Danger Rating for Stutsman County is in the “VERY HIGH” or “EXTREME” categories or if a “RED FLAG WARNING” has been issued. This is updated daily on the Stutsman County website.

Stutsman County Sheriff Chad Kaiser says because of the continued dry conditions, much of Stutsman County has stayed in the upper index of the fire danger categories. He says its vital for everyone to check the danger rating map before participating in outdoor activities that could start fires.

There is no limit or ban on fireworks this year, but Sheriff Kaiser says failure to adhere to the burn ban will result in a Class B misdemeanor, for which a maximum penalty of 30 days in jail and/or a fine of $1,500.

Chief Paulson says residents can stay safe and prevent any unnecessary fires by just being prepared this Independence Day weekend.

The daily Fire Danger Rating can be found either by going to the Stutsman County website at www.co.stutsman.nd.us and clicking on the green “Fire Danger” icon at the top of the page, or by calling the Stutsman County Communications Center at 701-252-1000.

A full version of the burn ordinance can also be found at the website under Departments, choose Zoning, and click on “Burn Ban Ordinance” on the left-hand side of the page.

Listen to a full Let’s Talk About It with Sheriff Chad Kaiser and JRFD Fire Chief Brian Paulson below: