Monday, October 14 Press Release

ZANESVILLE–Applications remain available for the Master Gardener Volunteer Program sponsored by the OSU Extension office. Applications are available at the office and online at muskingum.osu.edu/mgv and the application period closes on November 14. Call the Muskingum County Extension office for more detail.

Most of Ohio currently shows ‘abnormally dry’ on the drought monitor map with some portions registering as ‘moderate drought’. This should come as no surprise as we continue to operate with little to no rain in the area. A check on the Zanesville weather station shows 0.03 in of rain in the last seven days with a total of 1.27 inches in the last 30 days. This brings up the hot topic of fire safety during the fall harvest season. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
• Park a hot combine (and other equipment) away from out-buildings
• Keep dried plant material from accumulating on equipment
• Refuel when engines are cool
• Have 2 fully charged fire extinguishers on a combine. Have 1 fully charged fire extinguishers in the tractor, grain cart, and pickup truck.

Regular maintenance is a priority and always have an emergency action plan in place. Call 911 before using a fire extinguisher. You may not be operating equipment this fall, but you may be enjoying an evening bonfire under a full moon or stary-lit sky, as I am sure many did this weekend. Be smart about these fires and if you need to say something to you friends and neighbors about safety be sure to say something and not let the moment pass. Keep a shovel on hand, perhaps some sand, and water if you are able. You can’t go wrong by keeping a fire extinguisher nearby, but make sure you understand how it works and its proper use. Enjoy the season and neighbors, friends and family.