In the wake of recent storms that hit Virginia, officials with the Virginia Department of Forestry are encouraging people to practice safe burning if and when they begin burning yard debris and blown down limbs and trees.

The VDOF regulates open burning and there are several rules, regulations, and tips that residents need to follow to stay safe, stay legal, and avoid undesirable impact from smoke.

From Feb. 15 through the end of April, it is illegal to burn before 4 p.m. if you’re within 300 feet of woods or dry grass leading to the woods. Visit https://dof.virginia.gov/wildland-prescribed-fire/wildfire-prevention/before-you-burn for complete regulations. VDOF has a number of suggestions on how to burn safely and open burning don’ts.

Responsible burning

—Start any burn as early as possible (after 4 p.m. during fire season), so the fire will have time to die down before evening sets in;

—Have enough people on-site to keep the fire attended to and controlled at all times...