Fire threat increases with dry conditions

Jeremy Robshaw, Public Information Officer with St. Johns County Fire Rescue, informed Historic City News local reporters that firefighters have seen an increase in fire danger and brush fire responses throughout St. Johns County. .

“Due to increasingly dry conditions in our area, fire rescue will continue working together with Division of Forestry to provide for a rapid response to all reported brush fires,” Robshaw said. “We encourage residents to use caution and remain aware of the daily weather conditions.”

Even though a burn ban is not in effect for St. Johns County, fire rescue officials strongly urge residents to delay any outdoor burning due to the dry conditions.

St. Johns County provides curbside yard debris pick-up year around throughout the county and residents are encouraged to use this service in lieu of any outdoor burning.

Some helpful tips to keep your home safe from fire are listed below courtesy of St. Johns County Fire Rescue and Division of Forestry:

• Create a defensible space surrounding your home clear of debris or brush.

• Clean debris such as leaves or limbs from roof areas or gutters.

• Prune low hanging tree limbs to 6 – 10ft.

• Have an outside water source that can reach all sides of your home.

• Install less flammable landscaping in your yard and around your home.

For more information on the above tips or on how to prevent wildfires please visit the Division of Forestry website at www.fl-dof.com/wildfire/ or contact St. Johns County Fire Rescue at (904) 209-1750.