Madison firefighters extinguish a grass fire

Madison as well as Limestone Counties are still included in a no outside burn ban until at least October 31 2012.

What does that mean? Exactly like it says no outside burning of any kind is allowed until the area sees a substantial amount of rain to help ease the dry conditions. Area fire departments have been very busy responding to numerous woods, grass, and brush fires because citizens either do not know the ban is in place, or think they can burn and keep it under control. The heat we have been experiencing the last few weeks still has a grip on the area and it looks to not ease up soon.  If you are not sure if the county is under any type of restrictions you may check the National Weather Service Huntsville here http://www.srh.noaa.gov/hun/ or the Alabama Forestry Commission here  http://www.forestry.state.al.us/Default.aspx. before you burn, because you could face large fines.