WATONGA – The Blaine County commissioners voted on Monday, Dec. 27, to extend the county’s burn ban for another week.
The ban was originally enacted on Dec. 20 and is being reviewed on a weekly basis during commissioner meetings.
With the renewal, it is officially unlawful for individual Blaine County residents to discharge fireworks, a popular pastime on New Year’s Eve. Blaine County Sheriff Travis Daugherty said locals could face legal troubles if they accidentally start a wildfire on New Year’s.
Burn ban violations are punishable by up to a year in prison, a $500 fine, or both.
Daugherty also warned Blaine County residents against drinking and driving on New Year’s Eve.
“Our deputies will be out in full force,” Daugherty said. “If you have a bit too much to drink that night, don’t drive home.”