TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — Governor Ron DeSantis is joining other state officials in urging Florida residents and visitors to practice fire safety as dangerous fire conditions are possible throughout Florida this summer.
CFO and State Fire Marshall Jimmy Patronis, Commissioner of Agriculture Nikki Fried, and Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Director Jared Moskowitz are all helping promote fire safety this summer.
“Especially as we near the Fourth of July holiday and families plan summer festivities, it is imperative that all Floridians practice good fire safety tips and make a plan to protect their families and homes,” said Governor DeSantis. “Every family must also be prepared for the threat of wildfires. Hurricanes in recent years have left serious amounts of debris across our state and we must all remain vigilant to protect our communities.”
State officials say all Floridians are encouraged to practice fire safety and to have a plan for their homes and businesses to prevent potentially hazardous wildfires.
Here are some tips for creating a disaster plan in case of a fire emergency:
• Post your local fire department’s phone number in a visible place in your home.
• If you must evacuate, decide where you will go and how you will get there. Unlike in a hurricane evacuation, you may only have a moment’s notice.
• Have two escape routes mapped out: one out of your home and one out of your neighborhood.
• Have tools available and accessible, including a shovel, rake, axe, handsaw or chainsaw, and a 2-gallon bucket.
• Maintain an adequate water source.
• Have a plan for your pets.
• Practice family fire drills.
Officials also say you should look out for the following warnings and know what they mean when issued.
You can find active fire weather outlooks and more information through the National Weather Service.
- Red Flag Warning: Very favorable conditions exist for the spread of wildfires, use extreme caution when handling flammable materials and open flames because if a wildfire develops it will spread rapidly.
- Fire Weather Watch: Conditions are expected to become favorable for rapid wildfire growth, look out for red flag warnings in later forecasts.
- Fire Danger Statement: The potential exists for wildfires to develop and spread but are not severe enough for a Red Flag warning to be issued.
To learn more about current wildfire conditions in Florida, click here.
To make a disaster plan for wildfires and any disaster, please visit: FloridaDisaster.org.
