Bronson reminds Floridians about the dangers of wildfires during Wildfire Awareness Week
Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles H. Bronson today announced that April 12-18 is Wildfire Awareness Week. The second week of April is designated as Wildfire Awareness Week in recognition of Florida’s devastating 1998 wildfire season, when more than a half-million acres burned and 337 homes and other structures were damaged or destroyed by wildfires statewide.
“The spring months are generally the most active months of Florida’s year round wildfire season,” Bronson said. “We have been fortunate in the amount of rainfall we have received in the Florida panhandle; however the peninsula part of the state is still very dry. There is a very good chance that we will see an increase in wildfire activity in central and south Florida over the coming weeks and months.”
The Division of Forestry responds to an increased number of escaped yard waste fires this time of year. Bronson is urging residents to use caution when burning yard waste and to follow the guidelines set by the Division of Forestry:
— Burning yard waste does not require an authorization from the Division of Forestry, but you should check with your local city, county or Forestry officials to see if there are any restrictions in your area.
— Your fire must be contained to an 8-foot-diameter pile or non-combustible barrel and must be at least 25 feet from forests, 25 feet from your house, 50 feet from a paved public road and 150 feet from other occupied buildings.
— Don’t burn on windy days or when the humidity is below 30 percent.
— Never leave a fire unattended, and make sure it is out before you leave.
— Keep a shovel and water hose handy.
— If your fire escapes, you may be held liable for suppression costs and damage to the property of others.
Since Jan. 1, 1,570 wildfires have burned 43,565 acres in Florida, more than twice last year’s number of fires and acres burned at this point of the year in 2008. Most of these fires were caused by human carelessness.
“Floridians should take precautions to help prevent wildfires and report all suspicious fires to 911 or their local Division of Forestry office,” Bronson said. “Never leave a campfire unattended, dispose of cigarettes properly, and make sure all vehicles and equipment have properly working spark arresters.”
Contact your local Division of Forestry field office for more information on fire prevention tips and burning rules and regulations, or visit the Division of Forestry’s website at http://www.fl-dof.com.
Source: Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services