Press Release: Burn Ban 3-25-2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Tangipahoa Parish President Robby Miller

(985) 748-3211

AMITE—As part of the state’s latest efforts to improve environmental conditions in light of the COVID-19 response, Tangipahoa Parish President Robby Miller is urging residents to comply with a statewide burn ban that went into effect today.

The order, signed by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, prohibits all private burning, including leaves and yard materials. 

The issue is two-fold, Miller said. “Our goal is to maintain our healthy air quality not only for our community as a whole but especially for those residents whose airways may be compromised due to allergies and other respiratory issues at this time.

Additionally, Miller said the burn ban honors the spirit of Governor John Bel Edwards’ order to limit personal contact and promote social distancing, even among essential personnel.

“We are now reading reports of emergency workers who are falling ill during this COVID-19 response,” Miller said, adding that the burn ban will assist in potentially reducing some of the call volume for our local fire departments.

The statewide burn ban went into effect at 8 a.m. today (Wednesday, March 25), and will remain in effect until rescinded.