Bronson Urges Extreme Fire Caution As Weekend Approaches
For Information, Contact:
Liz Compton
(850) 488-3022
Liz.Compton@freshfromflorida.com
Gerry LaCavera
Division of Forestry
(850) 921-3733
Gerry.Lacavera@freshfromflorida.com
May 16, 2008
TALLAHASSEE – Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles Bronson is urging people across the state to be extremely cautious about their outdoor activities this weekend to prevent new wildfires from occurring.
Because weather is so unpredictable, changes can lead to unexpected fire behavior. Firefighters are making significant progress on the wildfires, but Bronson is concerned that people may get complacent when involved in outdoor activities, especially cookouts and yard work.
“People don’t realize how many fires are started by a spark from a piece of equipment outdoors,” Bronson said. “Right now the conditions are such that the public needs to be extremely cautious with equipment, with outdoor barbeques and remember not to throw lit materials out the car window.”
Bronson is also advising people to forego any yard waste burning until the weather conditions improve. Six counties have instituted burn bans, but Bronson says conditions are not good for yard waste burning in any area of the state.
“Even if some parts of Florida are fortunate enough to get some rain this weekend, it won’t be enough to eliminate the danger,” Bronson said. “We are still in a deficit rainfall situation and there is a lot of dried out vegetation which acts as fuel for fires. Also, the same storms that may bring rain will bring strong winds as well which is a real problem for the firefighters.”
Bronson said homeowners should clear leaves and other debris from the gutters and roofs of their homes and remove any dead vegetation around their homes. People should not leave gas or charcoal grills unattended at any time. He says motorists in impacted areas need to be alert and cautious because numerous roads are being impacted by smoke, making driving a little more hazardous.
A number of wildfires are suspected arsons and Bronson is also reminding people to report any suspicious activity to the arson hotline, 1-800 342- 5869. There is up to a $5000 reward for information leading to the arrest of an arsonist.
For more information on current wildfire conditions as well as steps people can take to protect their homes, log onto www.floridaforestservice.com.
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