Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson, in collaboration with the Florida Forest Service is urging Floridians to take action ahead of this year’s Wildfire season. According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, “Florida’s peak wildfire season usually encompasses April, May, and June, and the National Interagency Fire Center has predicted an “above normal significant wildfire potential” across the state this year.”
Commissioner Simpson said, “Florida is experiencing widespread drought conditions like we have not seen in years, and forecasts show the next few months could be extremely active for wildfires. We need all Floridians to do their part now by following local burn restrictions, staying alert to weather conditions when burning, and preparing their homes and yards to be wildfire ready. Remember, every fire prevented is one less fire we must respond to, and that will help ensure the safety of our firefighters and our communities.”
Rick Dolan, Director of the Florida Forest Service said, “Thanks to year-round training, investment in heavy equipment and aviation resources, and aggressive wildfire mitigation efforts across our state, the Florida Forest Service and our local and federal partners are as prepared for an active peak wildfire season as possible. I’m asking everyone to pay attention to the weather, especially wind, relative humidity, and days since rain, when considering burning. Peak wildfire season is here, and we need to be wildfire ready.”
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.