Sandhills Post Staff
OGALLALA, Neb. — Officials in Keith County have issued a ban on all open burning and the sale and discharge of fireworks due to heightened wildfire risks stemming from ongoing dry conditions.
The Keith County Board of Commissioners approved the emergency resolutions Tuesday following recommendations from local fire chiefs. The fire ban is in effect until further notice and applies across the county, including popular recreation areas like Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala.
“No open fires or fire pits are allowed,” officials said, noting that the ban includes campfires and beach fires. Propane-fueled stoves and fire pits remain permitted, according to Nebraska Game and Parks.
Fireworks are also restricted under the new measures. While discharge of fireworks is already prohibited in state recreation areas, the sale and use of fireworks throughout Keith County is now banned.
While the state wide burn ban expired yesterday authorities urge residents and visitors to exercise caution and comply with the restrictions to prevent potential wildfires.