State Ag and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain promises to hold people who start wildfires responsible. Strain says these wildfires are destroying acres of land and property…
“Accidental fires are a big part of the problem but then theres arson. And we’re going to make arrests. These are felonies for which there will be jail time and there will be full restitution.”
Strain urges the public to not throw cigarettes out of a car window, use barbecue grills to cook outside, or burn debris. He says burning small debris fires could be extremely dangerous.
“The home that was lost in Washington Parish where someone died there was three debris piles around the home. When you look at that, that home was lost it was a 16 acre fire total but there was a loss of life.”
Violators with civil citations could pay up to $250 in fines. If it is criminal, Strain says the perpetrator could face a $500 fine and up to six months in jail. That doesn’t include restitution for loss of property.
“If you have to make full restitution, you’ll be paying restitution for the rest of your life on these fires. So please don’t light the match. We need everyone’s help. Please work with us so we can keep everyone safe. And protect property and life.”
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