Fire can be very helpful when utilized properly, but also very dangerous.

Stuart Fire Department Assistant Fire Chief Stephen Martinson says that October 8th through 14th is National Fire Prevention Week, and shares some fire safety tips. He mentions that it’s always important to make sure that fires don’t get out of hand, but that it’s especially important this time of year, as vegetation begins to die off and dry out. The dry conditions can allow fires to spread rapidly, especially if there is any wind. Martinson tells Raccoon Valley Radio why residents should alert emergency services if they are performing a controlled burn.

“It’s very important to be honest with you. We try to encourage as many people as we can to call the local sheriff’s office to have them document the time and location of their controlled burn and when they are done burning. This helps dispatch know when a passerby call 911 to report a fire that it is a controlled burn or not, and if to send the fire department out there or not.”

Martinson shares that when fires do get out of hand, he frequently sees those passing by or those who live close by drive past to see what’s going on. He explains that while he understands how individuals may be curious, he advises people to stay away from any fires, as they can be unpredictable. Martinson adds that if you have to drive past a fire, be careful if the smoke is crossing the road, because it can limit your field of vision.