(Editorial - Graphic Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

With relentlessly dry weather — even for fall — and ever-growing piles of crunchy leaves on the ground, West Virginia’s risk for wildfire is unusually high this season. Effective Monday, state officials have put in place an outdoor burn ban to try to lower that risk.

Between Oct. 1 and Dec. 31, outdoor burning was already prohibited between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.

This means even camping fires, those used to burn debris or warming are prohibited.

Fires for outdoor cooking conducted for fund-raising events and charitable organizations are still permitted, but a water source capable of extinguishing the blaze must be present and a permit must be obtained from the state Division of Forestry.

There are a few other exceptions, but just about all of them involve getting permission from the very folks who will be putting their lives on the line to fight any wildfires that do ignite. They are ready to do so, of course. They always are. Under these circumstances, they are putting together a wildfire readiness plan to enforce the ban, but also are no doubt coming up with a strategy for combating fires that develop in these tinder box conditions.

Nearly every part of the state is facing moderate or high fire danger today. When that danger becomes a reality, precious forest, private and public lands and even homes and other buildings can be lost. Worse, lives can be lost. The death of Cody Mullens while fighting a Fayette County wildfire last year must not be forgotten.

Nevermind the fines and penalties if a person is caught and determined to be the reason a wildfire was sparked. Think about the far greater consequences that could result from disobeying the burn ban.

Follow the rules, and do your part to ensure that doesn’t happen.

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It’s Nov. 5: General Election Day. If you haven’t already done so, cast your ballot today. Don’t wake up tomorrow and regret sitting out this one.