CAPE CORAL, Fla. — Brush fires have increased in our area over the last few months, but with the recent visit of rain, what does that mean for dry season? Charlotte County Fire officials say the threat level remains steady.
“Just because we had a little bit of rain doesn’t mean it’s time to let off, and be a little careless. Be vigilant, make sure you’re not doing anything that could spark a fire”, said Todd Dunn, Public Information Officer with Charlotte County Fire and EMS
Taking precautionary measures, Charlotte County has enacted a burn ban.
“That means no open flames, no backyard fire pits, nothing that is open or exposed”, said Dunn.
However, with many of us stuck at home, starting an accidental brush fire can be more likely.
“Obviously the fire pit, where you’re letting the embers burn and float away that’s always a problem to cause a fire. A hot vehicle parked on dry grass, that’s a good way to start a fire, and throwing out your cigarettes into a field or out your window” said Dunn.
Dunn says it is important we take the burn ban seriously.
“Anytime there is a big fire it takes a lot of resources. Not only are you using our Charlotte County Fire and EMS resources but you’re also pulling from our mutual aids agreements with our neighbors and forestry. It takes a lot of resources to get a wildfire under control”, said Dunn.
On the other hand there is a positive by staying safe at home.
“When people are at home the good side of that, is there are more eyes. We might not see a fire that started right away, but if we’re at home we can see that, so that’s a plus side to the stay at home order”, said Dunn.