Kosciusko County Commissioners this morning extended a burn ban in light of the continued drought conditions.

Emergency Management Director Ed Rock recommended the commissioners sign a new disaster declaration extending the ban for another two weeks. Unanimously, commissioners president Bob Conley and Ron Truex and Brad Jackson approved the ban, which is now in effect until July 17.

Rock said the ban excludes the use of personal fireworks although “they are strongly discouraged.” Indiana law provides that anyone who causes damages by use of personal fireworks commits a class A misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment of up to 1 year and a maximum fi­ne of $10,000.

Violating the local burn ban is a class B misdemeanor punishable by up to $1,000 in fines and up to 180 days in jail.

The complete disaster declaration can be seen here: Burn Ban Signed 7-3-12