Cape Coral Fire Department urges caution amid burn bans

CAPE CORAL, Fla. —

The Cape Coral Fire Department is urging residents to avoid outdoor burning and take precautions to prevent wildfires during the current extreme drought conditions, as strong winds can quickly spread embers and ignite fires.

Meteorologist Rob Duns said the highest wind gust Monday was 29 mph, which can exacerbate the risk of fires. Despite the cold weather tempting some to build campfires, officials emphasize that no outdoor burning should occur due to burn bans in Cape Coral and across the Gulf Coast. The dry grass can easily catch fire.

Andrea Schuch from CCFD said, "We're asking people not to, to ride ATVs or drive cars on grassy areas, any sort of like, sparks that may come from the engine can easily start a fire as well."

Schuch also advised, "And then if you see any small column of smoke, maybe you see a neighbor and they're burning and maybe they're unaware about the burn ban, to go ahead and give us a call so that we can go out, and educate them and help put out the fire."

Residents are reminded to properly dispose of cigarette butts in a glass of water to ensure the flames are completely extinguished.

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