Lee County extends burn ban as drought conditions persist

LEE COUNTY, Fla. —

Lee County officials have extended a burn ban as severe drought conditions continue to pose a risk for brush fires.

"It just doesn't take much for a grass fire to get out of control," said Rusty Milner, of Cape Coral, who has been keeping a close eye on the dry conditions in Lee County.

Milner noted that the region is behind on moisture and said he supports the county’s decision to extend the burn ban. County leaders voted to extend the ban earlier in the day.

"In order for the burn ban to be rescinded, we need many more days of rain," said Andrea Schuch, with the Cape Coral Fire Department.

Schuch explained that keeping the ban in place is safer for the community. "It's just much more consistent and safer for everybody if we keep the burn ban in place until those severe drought conditions have improved," she said.

Lee County’s director of public safety said officials have been in contact with the National Weather Service, the Florida Division of Forestry, and the Lee County Fire Chiefs Association to monitor this year’s fire conditions.

Dry soil plays a significant role in the spread of fires, and fire experts in the area are reminding residents that the ban includes fire pits, the burning of yard debris, and fireworks.

"All to prevent dangerous brush fires like we’ve already seen this fire season," Schuch said.

Milner expressed his approval of the decision. "I’m glad they extended it; it was a good idea," he said.

The burn ban will last up to 30 days and can be extended in seven-day increments if the area does not receive enough rain.

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