The Red River Parish Fire Protection District has issued a burn ban prohibiting outdoor burning due to increasingly dry conditions and the heightened risk of wildfires.

According to Fire Chief John Woodfin, the ban went into effect at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19. Officials cited a lack of moisture in vegetation and current fuel dryness as reasons for the restriction.

There is an exception for cooking. Grills and smokers may still be used as long as all open flames are contained and the grill or smoker has an enclosed lid.

Residents should refrain from other outdoor burning while the ban remains in effect.