Nesquehoning residents will be prohibited from burning for the foreseeable future come Monday. Borough council, on Wednesday, voted to implement a 30-day burn ban, which will go into effect Monday as a result of the below-average precipitation.

John McArdle, borough emergency management coordinator and Nesquehoning Hose Company fire chief, recommended the ban.“I know there is some rain in the forecast, but after being briefed on the weather and the drought situation we’re in right now, I think that (a burn ban) would be prudent to implement,” he said. “With the leaves falling and the gypsy moth stuff, everything is very dry and we’re still in a drought watch.A burn ban means that burning of any kind is prohibited at this time, including in burn barrels, fire pits, chimineas and any other types of fire containers. Residents found burning during a banwill be cited.In other fire-related matters, McArdle reminds residents that Oct. 9-15 is Fire Prevention Week and urges everyone to check the batteries in smoke detectors and make sure heating systems are functioning properly.“You don’t want to wait until there is a problem,” he said.The hose company will participate in three fire prevention programs, one with the ReDCo Group on Oct. 10; and two at Panther Valley Elementary School at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Oct. 14.