Florida Forest Service Urges Caution As Dry Conditions Elevate Wildfire Threat

September 27, 2019

The Florida Forest Service is urging Floridians to exercise caution as record high temperatures and dry conditions are expected to continue throughout the state, elevating the fire danger level.

“Florida’s dry conditions and high temperatures pose elevated wildfire threats throughout the state. I encourage all Floridians and visitors to be vigilant and cautious with all outdoor fire,” said Commissioner Nikki Fried. “When citizens exercise caution, they’re doing more than just protecting themselves and their property – they’re helping protect the lives of Florida’s wildland firefighters and first responders.”

While lightning is one of the leading causes of wildfires in Florida, most of the wildfires this year have been human-caused and many were caused by escaped yard debris burning.

The Florida Forest Service is urging the public to avoid yard debris burning due to the elevated fire threat and to use extreme caution when using fire outdoors, including campfires and grills. The following are recommendations to minimize the threat of wildfires:

  • Never burn on dry, windy days;
  • Never leave a fire or outdoor heat source unattended;
  • Keep a water source and a shovel or suppression tool on-hand;
  • Completely extinguish any fire before leaving it;
  • Avoid parking over dry, grassy areas;
  • Ensure chainsaws, off-highway vehicles, and motorcycles have spark arrestors.

Since January, the Florida Forest Service has battled 1,475 wildfires that have burned 89,105 acres.

NorthEscambia.com file photo, click to enlarge.

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Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News