As Labor Day weekend approaches, fire safety is a top concern in Arkansas. Twelve counties are still under active burn bans, even though parts of the state received rainfall recently. Authorities are reminding the public to be cautious, especially with outdoor activities like grilling and campfires.
Where Are Burn Bans Still Active?
According to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture – Forestry Division, burn bans are still in place in several counties, especially in the northeastern and southern regions of the state.
Counties currently under burn bans include:
Fulton
Izard
Sharp
Monroe
(And 8 others as of the latest update)
While central and western Arkansas saw enough rain to lower the fire risk, drier pockets remain—and that means the wildfire danger isn’t over yet.
Wildfire Danger Still Present in Some Regions
The National Weather Service in Little Rock reports that moderate wildfire danger is still active in 17 counties, especially in northern and southwestern Arkansas. These areas didn’t receive enough rainfall this week to fully reduce the risk.
People living in or visiting these counties should be especially careful with:
Campfires
Outdoor burning of debris
Fireworks
Grilling near dry grass or wooded areas
Safety Tips for Labor Day Outdoor Plans
Labor Day weekend often brings people outdoors for BBQs, camping, and gatherings. If you’re planning outdoor activities, keep these fire safety tips in mind:
Do not burn if your county is under a burn ban
Keep a water source or fire extinguisher nearby while grilling or using fire
Avoid using fire near dry leaves, grass, or brush
Completely extinguish campfires and coals before leaving them unattended
Report any signs of wildfires or smoke to authorities immediately
Could More Counties Be Added?
Yes. Conditions may change quickly, especially if dry, warm weather continues. More counties could issue burn bans if rainfall stays limited. It’s a good idea to check with your local county officials or fire department before lighting any outdoor fires.
You can also visit the Arkansas Forestry Division website for the latest map and updates on burn bans across the state.
As families and friends come together to celebrate Labor Day, staying fire-aware is more important than ever. By following burn restrictions and practicing good fire safety habits, we can help keep Arkansas communities safe from wildfires this holiday weekend.
