The Town of Lapel has issued an emergency declaration and implemented a burn ban.

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As of Saturday, October 4, 2025, a county-wide burn ban has been issued in Madison County by the Madison County Commissioners, in collaboration with the Madison County Emergency Management & Homeland Security Agency and local fire departments. Currently, 17 other counties in Indiana are also under a similar burn ban.

A Declaration of Local Emergency has been issued by the Principal Executive Officer of Madison County due to ongoing drought conditions, which pose a significant risk of widespread fire hazards. This declaration is in accordance with Indiana Code sections 10-14-3-29(a)(1) and 36-2-2-2, which grant the President of the County Board of Commissioners the authority to declare a local emergency.

The burn ban prohibits the following activities in Madison County:

* Campfires and recreational fires, unless they are enclosed in a fire ring with dimensions of 23 inches in diameter and 6 inches in height, or larger
* Open burning of any kind using conventional fuel, such as wood or other combustible materials, except for grills fueled by charcoal briquettes or propane
* Burning of debris, including timber or vegetation, resulting from construction activities or windstorm debris
* Use of burn barrels for open burning at residential structures

However, charcoal from permitted grills can be used, but the charcoal must be thoroughly extinguished before being removed from the grill.

The Declaration of Local Emergency will remain in effect until it is rescinded by the Madison County Board of Commissioners, who will reevaluate the situation every seven days. All residents are required to comply with the burn ban and cooperate with public officials and disaster services.

The issuance of this burn ban is a precautionary measure to protect the safety of citizens and property in Madison County. By taking this step, the county aims to mitigate the risk of wildfires and ensure public safety during the ongoing drought conditions.

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Huge congratulations to our BULLDOGS on their impressive 7-0 win! Keep up the fantastic work, team – you’re on a roll!

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We want to extend a huge thank you to Lapel Stony Creek Twp. Fire Territory for consistently making fire safety educational and engaging for kids, while also showcasing the invaluable role firefighters play in our community. It’s wonderful to see them making learning fun.

The kids were incredibly curious, asking plenty of questions and showing a genuine interest in everything. If you’d like to see some of the excitement, there are videos in the comments of them ringing the bell.

[Photos of the event]

It’s heartwarming to see the big kids having so much fun while learning about fire safety and the importance of firefighters. Their curiosity and enthusiasm are a testament to the impact that interactive educational experiences can have.

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Versiti Blood Center of Indiana is hosting a blood drive. To view the schedule and find a donation time that works for you, visit https://donateblood.versiti.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/11621675. Your donation can help save lives in our community. Consider taking a few minutes to donate blood and be a part of something amazing.

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Lapel Stony Creek Twp. Fire Territory is conducting its annual hose and ladder testing today, in accordance with NFPA standards, to ensure the safety and readiness of our firefighting equipment. Throughout the day, all hose lines will be tested out front of the station.

Our testing procedures adhere to strict NFPA requirements, including NFPA 1962, which mandates annual inspection and pressure testing of fire hose, nozzles, and appliances. Additionally, our ladder testing follows NFPA 1932, guaranteeing that all ground ladders meet operational and structural integrity requirements on an annual basis.

We would like to extend special thanks to KLR Fire Services Inc for performing this essential service, helping us maintain our high standards of safety and readiness. As testing is underway, please use caution when approaching the station today.

[images of hose and ladder testing]

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🚨 HELP US HELP YOU – VOLUNTEER RESPONDERS NEED YOUR COOPERATION! 🚨

In Indiana, a little-known law allows volunteer firefighters to use blue or green flashing lights on their personal vehicles when responding to emergency calls. These lights serve as a courtesy request to other drivers, signaling that the volunteer is rushing to the fire station to help respond to an emergency – possibly one in your own neighborhood.

At Lapel Stony Creek Township Fire, many of our dedicated volunteers rely on these lights to reach the station quickly and safely. Every second counts in emergency situations, as fires can double in size every 30 seconds and medical emergencies require rapid response.

So, what can you do to help?
✅ Stay alert for flashing blue or green lights on the road.
✅ If you see one, pull over safely to the right if possible and let the vehicle pass.
✅ Spread the word – many people are unaware of the meaning behind these lights.
By cooperating with volunteer firefighters, you’re helping save lives, including those of your neighbors, friends, and family.

Your support is crucial, and we’re grateful for your help. Thank you for backing your local volunteer firefighters!
#Lapel #LapelStonyCreekTwpFireTerritory #VolunteerFirefighters #IndianaLaw #BlueLight #GreenLight #MoveOver #SupportVolunteers #EverySecondCounts

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