ORLANDO, Fla. – Mike Facente, the Orlando District Manager for the Florida Forest Service, highlighted the fire risks that Florida faces during the dry spring and summer months.

As the state enters a period of heightened fire danger, Facente emphasizes the importance of awareness and preparedness among residents.

“Today is what’s called a red flag warning,” Facente explained. “The National Weather Service issues a red flag warning, which means low humidity, dry fuel moisture, and high winds.”

These conditions prevail across the eastern and southern parts of Florida, making it a common occurrence during this time of year.

While Florida is often associated with wet summers and hurricanes, fire remains a significant concern.

“We do a lot of prescribed burning in Florida,” Facente said. “We’re No. 1 in the United States for keeping our state forests and our landowners’ areas burned to reduce wildfire danger.”

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Prescribed burns serve as a critical tool in managing fire risks, with the Florida Forest Service having already conducted burns on approximately 95,000 acres this year.

“We usually try to keep everything burnt on a 2- to 3-year rotation,” Facente mentioned.

Facente advised residents to maintain clean rooftops and gutters, and clear dry vegetation around homes to prevent fires.

“A lot of times when a house or structure burns down, it usually catches fire before the fire gets close due to embers landing on it,” he warned.

Facente also touched on recent incidents, such as the brush fire in Osceola County that led to evacuations.

“It’s always a concern,” Facente said, urging vigilance among those living in rural areas.

Facente discussed the unique fire conditions in Florida, where even green vegetation can burn.

“People might think everything’s nice and beautiful green, but in Florida, green burns,” he stated.

Currently, Florida experiences a drought-like condition, which experts expect to persist until summer rains arrive.

“We’re in this drought condition right now,” Facente noted, adding that the state has 62 active fires, with the largest covering over 22,000 acres in the Everglades.

The role of wind in exacerbating fire conditions also receives attention.

“The winds that we’re experiencing today increase fire potential in the dry conditions that we have,” Facente explained.

In terms of prevention, Facente emphasized the importance of public awareness and quick response.

“If they see a fire, just contact 911 immediately,” he urged.

He also advised against activities that could inadvertently start fires, such as outdoor grilling or using machinery that could spark.

Facente’s extensive experience with the Florida Forest Service, spanning 18 years, gives him a unique perspective on the challenges and changes in the state’s fire management. As Florida continues to grow, the importance of fire awareness and prevention remains paramount. Facente’s insights serve as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to manage and mitigate fire risks in the Sunshine State.