The Commonwealth's 4 p.m. Burning Law goes into effect Feb. 15, 2006. This law prohibits the burning of open air fires before 4 p.m. each day (Feb. 15 – April 30) if the fire is in, or within 300 feet of, woodland, brushland or fields containing dry grass or other flammable materials. In Loudoun, the towns of Leesburg, Purcellville, and Round Hill prohibit burning at all times.

"The 4 p.m. burning law is one of the most effective tools we have in the prevention of wildfires," said Kelley Wagner, Loudoun County forester. "Each late winter and early spring, downed trees, branches and leaves become 'forest fuel' that increase the danger of a forest fire. By adhering to the law and not burning before 4 p.m., people are less likely to start a fire that threatens them, their property and the forests of Loudoun County."

Last year, there were 773 wildfires in Virginia, according to the Virginia Department of Forestry (VDOF). These fires destroyed 4,859 acres of forest land.

Fred Turck, VDOF forest protection coordinator, said, "The leading cause of forest fires in Virginia is carelessness. An unattended fire, a discarded cigarette or a single match can ignite the dry fuels that are so prevalent in the early spring. Add a few days of dry, windy conditions and an escaped wildfire can quickly turn into a raging blaze."

Of the 773 wildfires last year, 255 were caused by people burning debris or yard waste; 132 were arson; 92 were equipment use; 37 were due to smoking; 35 were started by children; 16 were caused by lightning; 11 were related to the railroads; nine were campfires, and the rest were classified as miscellaneous causes.

Areas affected by hurricanes, tornadoes or strong thunderstorms are of particular concern to the Department of Forestry. In addition to creating more forest fuel, large numbers of downed trees make firefighting more difficult and dangerous.

"People living in or near these areas are especially at risk," said Turck. "To take a quote from Smokey Bear, 'Only You Can Prevent Wildfires.'"

For more information on what you can do to protect yourself and your property, how to become "firewise," or to pick up a complete copy of the Forest Fire Laws, contact Kelley Wagner, 703.777.0457, at the local office of the Virginia Department of Forestry. You can also log on to www.dof.virginia.gov and click "Can I burn…?"