Between the tinder dry conditions and occasionally stiff winds, even a single ember from a barbecue could ignite a pasture. People need to be fire conscious around their homes. Residents must clear away flammable debris from beside their houses and absolutely stay away from celebrating the weekend with open fires, Hebb said. Masters pleaded no contest to failing to acquire a burn permit and failing to propery police his fire, both misdemeanors. He could have received two months in jail on each charge.
Masters still faces civil claims filed by neighbors and, possibly by the state forestry division.