Everyone knows the season of spring has arrived in Carroll County. The snow is gone and the temperatures are getting warmer. With the season change it brings everyone out of their homes.

Some may be planning to do some spring cleaning outside in the yard by gathering the winter debris of tree branches, leaves and so forth. Starting a brush-pile fire is an all-too-common practice in disposing of the material.

Brush fires can turn into an unexpected consequence if they are not controlled. These fires are attributed primarily to the careless burning of debris and household litter.

They result in untold damage to trees and landscape, water quality, and improvements, such as fences and outbuildings, and place people and their homes at significant risk.

Everyone should be aware of the laws and regulations set forth by the state of Ohio if one is planning to start burning a brush pile, the results may just be more than expected.

Open burning is particularly dangerous in the spring and fall, when the leaves are on the ground, the grass is not green and the weather is warm, dry and windy. As a result, open burning in Ohio is prohibited in unincorporated areas in March, April, May, October, and November, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Fire Departments in Carroll County strongly advise that you take all safety precautions, stay at the fire location at all times, and contact the sheriff's office to advise them when you are burning.