DENTON COUNTY – (CBSDFW.COM)  Citing the lack of sufficient rainfall and the increased risk of wildfires, Denton County Judge Mary Horn instated a mandatory county-wide burn ban effective today.

Denton joins 108 counties across Texas with similar restrictions.  The ban applies to all outdoor burning, the outdoor use of welding and cutting torch equipment and the usage of other combustible materials.

Denton County Fire Marshal, Chief Jody Gonzalez stated in a press release,  ”Citizens should take measures to protect their home by removing unwanted combustible debris and vegetation away from their homes and be sure to

keep water hoses readily accessible in the event a small fire starts.”

Charcoal or gas patio grills are exempt from the Denton County burn ban if a completely closed lid is used.