...Fire weather/fire prevention awareness week continues today with a Look at drought and its effects on wildfires...
Climatic conditions such as long term drought play a major role in the number and intensity of wildfires. During the past few months, West Tennessee, North Mississippi East Arkansas and the Missouri Bootheel have experienced prolonged dry conditions. The lack of rainfall, in conjunction with very warm temperatures, have allowed the forest fuels such as dead leaves, trees, and branches to become unusually dry and very susceptible to Igniting fires, especially when daytime humidities are low and wind speeds are high. During the drought of 2007, over 3000 wildfires were reported in Tennessee, burning over 44000 acres.
It is important to be alert to the increased threat of wildfires during drought conditions, especially those whose home is in a Forested area or those who plan on visiting area forests. The Following are some safety tips to help protect life and property from wildfires.
Check with local, State or Federal fire authorities or public land management officials to obtain current fire restriction Information.
Clear campfire sites down to bare soil, circle the fire pit with rocks and build the campfire away from overhanging branches, dry grass, pine needles, logs and steep slopes.
Never leave a campfire unattended. When putting out a campfire, douse the fire with water, stir the ashes and douse it with water again. Keep a bucket of water and shovel nearby.
Homes near forest areas should have trees and shrubs thinned at Least 30 feet from buildings. Remove lower tree branches, especially those that may overhang the roof.
Rake and clear surface fuels, such as leaves, limbs and Pine needles away from homes in wooded areas. For detailed Information on protecting your home from wildfires visit the Firewise website at www.firewise.org.
The next topic on Thursday during fire weather fire prevention week will be red flag warnings and extreme fire weather conditions.
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