KIMBALL -- The Kimball County Fire Departments are emphasizing the importance of fire prevention during the dry season. 

All three Kimball County Fire Chiefs have implemented a county-wide burn ban this week, effective immediately. They have asked residents to refrain from burning anything, starting fires or having open flames until further notice. 

“Conditions are very dry right now, and we didn’t have anybody wanting to burn but just wanted to keep everybody thinking about what the conditions are like until we get some moisture,” said Kimball Fire Chief Andrew Bohac. 

In honor of Fire prevention Week this week, The Kimball Volunteer Fire Department is hosting its annual open house on Oct. 9 from 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. at the Kimball Fire Hall (202 S. Webster St.)

They provide a light dinner and a tour of the Fire Hall, as well as accepting freewill donations. 

“This is a way to give back to the community for all they do for us,” Bohac said. 

The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) named the second week of October Fire Prevention Week in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire on Oct. 8, 1871, according to the NFPA’s website. The week is dedicated to raising fire safety awareness and ensuring people’s homes and families are protected.