Dry conditions lead to wildfire concerns

The Florida Forest Service is reminding the public about fire safety and are recommending that residents from Gulf to Walton counties not to burn yard debris and exercise caution when with camp fires and grilling.

Officials say dry conditions are making wildfires more likely; they have seen multiple wildfires spur from cooking and warming fires.

Normally, most fires that have any significance occur in the heat of the day when humidity is at its lowest and temperatures are high.

These recent fires are now spreading quickly, even at night. 

Even though some areas may be seeing showers, it’s not enough.

The drying trend continues and fire danger will steadily increase until the area receives an appreciable amount of rain.  

Based on weather conditions, officials with the Florida Forest Service’s Chipola Forestry Center will not be issuing authorizations for acreage burns and are urging caution with recreational fires.  

A few tips for the public to remember, never leave a fire unattended and completely extinguish it until it’s cold.

Avoid burning on windy days and keep a water source and a suppression tool, like a shovel, on hand.

To report a wildfire or suspicious smoke, call the Chipola Forestry Center Dispatch at (850) 373-1801. 

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