Mar 20, 2007

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Paul Filla, Public Information Officer
                       (239) 335-1606 office, (239) 930-0438 pager

State of local emergency declared for burn ban 

Lee County, FL  (March 20, 2007) After consultation with Lee County Emergency Management, the Lee County Fire Chief's Association and the Caloosahatchee Forestry Division, the Lee County Board of County Commissioners declared a State of Local Emergency and Emergency Resolution prohibiting open burning and other outdoor ignition sources.  The prohibition is effective in all incorporated and unincorporated areas of Lee County.
 
Drought conditions coupled with tinder resulting from this winter's frost and freeze damage and fuel from remaining debris from the 2004 and 2005 hurricane seasons have created a dangerously high potential for wildfire.
 
Prohibited activities include camp fires, bon fires, trash burning and similar open burning.  In addition, everyone should exercise extra caution in the use of barbeque grills and similar contained ignition sources.  Also be careful with smoking materials.  Make sure cigar and cigarettes are completely extinguished and do not throw butts out of your car window.
 
Take this opportunity to make sure your home is FireWise.  Keep at least 30 feet of defensible space around your home.  Clean gutters of leaves, pine needles and twigs that could fuel a fire started from a blowing ember.  Clear away trees and branches that could provide a path for fire to reach the eves of your home.  Consider replacing mulch with non-flammable substitutes such as pebbles.
 
Have a family safety plan.  Be prepared to react quickly if officials order an evacuation or if fire threatens your home.  Practice an evacuation drill.  Develop a communication plan in case everyone is not in one location.  Pack important documents and be sure to take them with you if evacuating. 

For information, contact Paul Filla at (239) 335-1606, pfilla@leegov.com or page (239) 930-0438.

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