10/25/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/25/2024 13:11
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson and the Florida Forest Service are warning of increased fire danger in Florida due to significant post-storm vegetative debris and dry weather. The Florida Forest Service and local fire departments are urging Floridians to use caution and know the law when burning debris piles.
"After major storms, we see a sharp increase in yard waste fires, but burning safely is crucial because escaped debris burns are a leading cause of wildfires in Florida," saidCommissioner Wilton Simpson. "In addition to knowing local ordinances, there are requirements and best practices for burning debris piles that can help you avoid catastrophe."
Here are some important reminders for anyone doing small yard burns:
Cooler temperatures also mean drier conditions, such as the moderate drought in the western Panhandle.
"Hurricane Milton brought a lot of rain and flooding to central Florida, but it's been several weeks since the Panhandle has seen precipitation," said Florida Forest Service Director Rick Dolan. "September and October are traditionally drier months, so it's not unusual for this time of year."
The Florida Forest Service, a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, manages more than 1 million acres of State Forests and provides forest management assistance on more than 17 million acres of private and community forests. The Florida Forest Service is also responsible for protecting homes, forestland, and natural resources from the devastating effects wildfire on more than 26 million acres. Learn more at FDACS.gov/FLForestService.
For more information about Commissioner Simpson and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit FDACS.gov.
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