It’s done. It’s over. The outdoor burn ban is lifted.
Patriots can light off fireworks in accordance with state laws and local ordinances, and pyromaniacs finally have an outlet.
According to an announcement on the Town of Fishers web site, professional displays may even start cropping up, as Fire and Emergency Services Chief Steve Orusa approves them, which are “handled on a case by case basis.”
Probably the best aspect of the burn ban being lifted is that it came just in time for fall. As the weather hopefully cools down and gives way to chilly breezes, the obvious thing to do is prepare for bonfires in the backyard.
There’s something special about having a bonfire, and it doesn’t take much work. A little bit of firewood can go a long way if you’re safe and keep it manageable. Unless you have a source of firewood for free, bundles can be purchased at a fair price at local grocery stores and gas stations. And of course, make sure there’s a safe way to put the fire out.
Add to the fun and have snacks at the ready. Messy smores and hot chocolate are a good call, if time allows.
Those ingredients add up to one fun experience, and a nice change of pace from the typical time sinks like TV and movies – though I am known to enjoy a good film.
Probably the best part about it, unlike movies and TV shows, is that when you sit around a fire, you get to talk to the friends and family that make life enjoyable. One tilt of the neck, and you can see the stars span across the sky.
All of a sudden, the worries and irritants of everyday life drift away and nothing is left but a toasty fire, hopefully a tasty snack and, most importantly, the company of good friends.
As usual, chat with me at Starbucks on 116th Street off of I-69 on Tuesdays from 3 to 5 p.m.