Burn ban expanded to include campfires, outdoor grilling

Wednesday, January 4th 2006, 8:51 pm

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Oklahoma's burn ban is being expanded to prohibit campfires and outdoor grilling as dry conditions and unseasonably warm temperatures continue across the state.

Oklahoma's Secretary of Agriculture Terry Peach says the extraordinary fire danger across the state calls for more extreme precautions.

Oklahoma has been plagued by wildfires that have killed two people, charred more than 350,000 acres and destroyed more than 220 homes and businesses since November 1st.

The expanded burn ban also implements more stringent restrictions on outdoor welding activities. The welding restrictions include a requirement that wind speeds are less than 15 miles per hour and relative humidity is above 30 percent. Also, two fire guards must be on site with pressurized water available.