The Overland Park Fire Marshal just issued an immediate burn ban for Merriam and Overland Park.

Due to the “danger of rapid fire spread” from today’s high winds and low humidity, all permits are temporarily suspended and recreation fires are prohibited until further notice.

Fire Marshal Mark Sweany said the lack of moisture makes for dangerous conditions at this time.

The fire department said gas grilling is allowed but urges extreme caution. They ask you avoid using your charcoal grill during the ban. Officials also ask that you properly dispose of smoking materials, including cigarette butts, as it could lead to grass and brush fires.

“Please completely extinguish spent smoking materials in a metal container with sand or water,” Jason Rhodes, Overland Park Fire Department media manager, said. “Do not flick cigarette butts from your car window.”

Fire Marshal Sweany will keep the burn ban in place until the weather changes to more favorable conditions. Please call 816-805-1764 with any questions.