COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. -- The Greenway fire in Collier County has burned nearly 18,000 acres, making it the largest of 31 active wildfires in Florida.
According to the Florida Forest Service, that fire is now 90% contained.
Other large fires in the state include an 8,000 acre fire in Gulf County, a 500 acre fire in Miami-Dade County, and a 450 acre fire in Polk County.
The Big Cypress National Preserve says the Spoonbill Wildfire in the northwest section of the preserve has burned almost 1,800 acres 2 miles north of Alligator Alley near mile marker 69.
Another fire in the preserve, the Cormorant Wildfire, is approximately one acre and was started by lightning.
The Florida Forest Service is urging residents to be cautious with fire and heat sources and to remember the following:
- Develop and implement a family wildfire action plan
- Call 911 or a local Florida Forest Service field unit office immediately in the event of a wildfire
- Obey Florida’s outdoor burning laws
- Never burn on windy days
- Always keep a water source and suppression tools on hand when burning yard debris
- Never leave an outdoor fire or hot grill unattended
- Avoid parking vehicles on dry grass