Burn Ban Lifted But Officials Say Not For Long

Wet weather over the weekend prompts fire officials to lift burn bans across Benton and Washington Counties. But officials say red flag warnings are still in effect and they urge the public to use caution when lighting fires. Washington County Fire Marshall John Jenkins says even though a county wide ban has been lifted, residents shouldn`t get used to the idea. Jenkins: "We recommend that folks try to get done what they need to because we do anticipate we`ll have to put the burn ban back on pretty quick." The National Weather Service forecast for Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday shows winds hovering around 15 mph, temperatures climbing, and no rain in sight. Jenkins: "Its not going to take long for it to dry out." And it hasn`t taken long for contractors and home owners to take full advantage of their burning freedom. Smoke lined the sky all over both counties, which has fire fighters cautiously nervous. Terry Lawson, Fayetteville Battalion Chief: "We want to continue to urge residents to be careful if they are going to be doing any burning. Use the normal precautions that you would. Have a garden hose handy and make sure you stay with the fire while its burning." Fire officials say they understand there`s a need to burn. But unfortunately its out of their control. Jenkins: "Its not the government controlling this its the weather. If we have to put a burn ban back on, its for the safety." Officials also urge the public to listen for burn ban updates.