Burn bans in effect across Johnson County

JOHNSON COUNTY, Kan. - Pyromaniacs be warned: A burn ban is in effect across Johnson County this holiday weekend.

Overland Park, Shawnee and Olathe Fire Departments issued the ban Wednesday. Officials will be reviewing the ban daily, monitoring the extreme dry condition and insufficient rainfall.

The ban will be strictly enforced by local law enforcement who reminds the public that the sale, use or possession of fireworks in both cities is illegal. Citizens of Shawnee can be fined $500 if found in possession of fireworks.

Olathe Division Chief and Fire Marshal Brad Henson is a part of the team in charge of monitoring the ban.

"Proactive fire prevention measures such as this are important to helping reduce the community's risk to fire,” Henson said.

Professional public firework displays will continue as scheduled on the Fourth of July even if the Burn Ban is still in effect.