EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT | Highlands County Fire Rescue has responded to several brush and structure fire calls over the weekend as well as this morning.
With the winds today coming from the south at 20-30 mph with gusts up to 40 mph, and the low dew point, it makes for dry conditions on the ground. It is important to understand how winds can affect fire behavior.
Once a fire is started, wind aids combustion by increasing the oxygen supply. It aids fire spread by carrying heat and embers to new fuels, and by bending the flames closer to the unburned fuels ahead of the fire. The direction of fire spread is determined mostly by the wind direction.
Please remain vigilant and always be wildfire ready, and follow these safety tips:
Always stay with your fire until it is completely out. Drown the fire with water, turn over the ashes with a shovel and drown it again. Repeat several times.
Check the burn area regularly over the next several days and up to several weeks following the burn, especially if the weather is warm, dry, and windy.
Make sure smoke does not obstruct visibility on nearby roads.
Remember, if your fire escapes, you may be liable for costs of suppression and damage to the property and others. The Florida Forest Service administers Florida’s outdoor burning and forest fire laws.
If you see what could be an illegal burn, report it! CALL 9-1-1 to have the fire department come check it out.
More info: smokeybear.com
