Watseka, IL – The Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency and the Eastern Illinois Mutual Aid Fire Association have reissued a countywide burn ban, effective 12:01 a.m. Monday, September 29, 2025, due to ongoing dry and warm conditions that have elevated fire danger across the region.
According to officials, the lack of rainfall and continued warm weather prompted the decision to reinstate the ban. “We have not received enough rain to prevent fires from quickly spreading, and there is nothing in the forecast to give us the moisture we need,” said Ashkum Fire Chief Jeff Glenn, who also serves as MABAS Division 37 President. “Everything is just tinder dry.”
The order prohibits all open burning, including landscape waste, agricultural debris, household trash, and consumer fireworks. Fire departments across the county are authorized to issue fines of $100 for violations, with fines doubling for repeat offenses.
Officials urge residents to comply with the restrictions to prevent grass or field fires, which can spread rapidly under the current conditions. The ban will remain in effect until further notice.
For updates, residents can contact the Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency or visit their official communications channels.
