Burn ban in effect for Speedway race fans - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

Thousands of people will be coming to Speedway this weekend for Super Weekend. But, after a summer-long drought has placed a burn ban in effect, what does that mean for campers and lawn parking?

Between the Indianapolis 500 and Brickyard 400, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway has dealt with heat issues.  But this weekend will mark the first time the track has had to take action for drought. 

Just like most of Indiana, the infield where about a thousand cars will park this weekend is brown, brittle and dry. So is the Coke lot at 25th and Georgetown, a popular camping spot for race fans.
    
Although the town of Speedway has not issued a formal burn ban for its residents, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is calling for a burn ban during this very busy race weekend.

"The biggest change our fans will notice is we're not allowing charcoal grills that take an ignition source like a flame," said Doug Boles of IMS. "Now, if you bring a gas grill, we're asking it be at least 18 inches off the ground. Really, we prefer 36 inches off the ground."

Other rules in effect this weekend at the track - no bonfires and no fireworks.

The Speedway Fire Department will have extra people at the track this weekend to enforce the burn ban. And Speedway officials ask that you dispose of cigarette butts properly, and keep an eye on car exhaust and generators - anything that may create a spark.

If a fan starts a fire, "We're going to ask people to put it out," said Boles. "If they don't comply, the Speedway Fire Department is prepared to put fires out on their own.  So we're hoping that people won't have fires."