According to Howard County Volunteer Fire Chief Tommy Sullivan, however, that relief may be short lived.

“We're responding to approximately one fire every two days right now,” said Sullivan. “Not too long ago, we were responding to four and five fires a day, so things have definitely improved. However, the moisture from the rains we saw during the first part of July are gone, and all that green stuff is starting to turn brown again. We're expecting some extreme heat in the coming months, and that will just add to the problem.”

Sullivan urged Howard County Commissioners Monday to continue their support of the ongoing burn ban, which will be up for renewal in the near future.

“I know we've never had to keep a burn ban in effect this long in the past,” said Sullivan. “However, it's vital right now, and it will become even more vital if we don't get some substantial rains in the very near future. We've dodged a lot of bullets recently, but no lives have been lost, so we're thankful for that.”

Barr called for area officials and the local media to stress to area residents how serious the situation is.

And while no one can predict a wildfire, Sullivan said local residents can take measures to help firefighters if their home becomes endangered.

“I really can't stress this enough, but it's vital our citizens be very careful right now,” said Sullivan. “Fire prevention is more of a proactive thing than a reactive thing, because once a fire starts it’s too late. One of the most important measures people can take right now is to make sure they have a 75- to 100-foot fire break around their home. Get rid of brush and other items that could burn. That can really help firefighters if their home becomes threatened.”

Sullivan said signs located on county firehouses that normally track the risk-level of wildfires will now be marked with a different sort of sign.

“The signs show there is a burn ban in effect right now,” said Sullivan. “We’re hoping that will help remind the citizens and impress upon them the importance of the ban. This is serious stuff.”

In the meantime, Sullivan said local residents need to remain vigilant of fire dangers throughout Howard County and the surrounding areas.

“I really hope people aren’t getting a false sense of security,” said Sullivan. “The danger is still very much there, and if people get careless we’re going to be in big trouble.”

Contact Staff Writer Thomas Jenkins at 263-7331 ext. 232 or by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it