Gwinnett County is starting its burn ban early, to avoid unnecessary emergency calls during the coronavirus pandemic.
The burn ban is usually in effect from May to the end of September. But the Gwinnett Fire Marshal’s office said Monday the ban would begin at 10 p.m., more than a month ahead of schedule.
The move seeks to limit 911 calls for outdoor burning that could have been avoided.
The Gwinnett County Department of Fire and Emergency Services provides all of the emergency medical response services in the county. So Fire Chief Russell Knick said his department didn’t need to be diverted by outdoor fires “during the public health crisis.”
“It is crucial at a time like this for Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services personnel to be available to provide uninterrupted emergency services to our residents,” Knick said in a statement.
The county has banned burning leaves, limbs and natural vegetation that may fall on one’s property; prescribed burning; acquired structure burns; burning vegetative debris from storms; and burning for weed abatement and disease and pest prevention.
Campfires and BBQ grills are still allowed, though charcoal, wood and gas grills on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction is prohibited year-round for commercial buildings and apartments.
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