MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. — Prolonged dry conditions have led to fire concerns in South Florida.

Forest rangers with the Florida Service in Homestead were on patrol Wednesday afternoon.

“The main concern is no rain. No moisture,” said senior Forest Ranger Patrick Fanelli. “The chance of a fire sparking is very high.”

According to the Forestry Service fire danger map, South Florida is at a Level 2, or moderate risk.

For forestry crews, that means equipment is gassed up, full of water, and ready to go.

Fanelli and a partner patrolled areas in the Redlands, where nurseries frequently burn vegetation. They spotted several businesses with unmanned fires and made them extinguish the flames for safety.

“It’s probably going to be a no-burn day for a while until we see some rain,” Fanelli said. “If you’re in doubt, don’t do it.”

Burning vegetation is a common practice that’s only on certain days. Businesses can register with the Forest Service to be in compliance.

Officials keeping close eye as dry conditions spark fire concerns

About The Author

Janine Stanwood