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Highlands Today

Cold Weather Hits Highlands, Wildfire Precaution Urged

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Special to Highlands Today

The Tampa Tribune

Published: January 16, 2009

SEBRING - The National Weather Service in Ruskin is forecasting cold weather in Highlands County, with temperatures tonight expected to dip to 31.

The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with north winds around 9 mph.

The New Testament Church and Mission, located at 604 Lemon Ave., Sebring, will be open for those seeking shelter.

Meanwhile, the Division of Forestry is reminding residents of wildfire danger.

"As several cold fronts move into our area, our lush green vegetation moves into its dormant state making it more susceptible to wildfires," according to a press release from Melissa Yunas, spokeswoman for the Florida Division of Forestry.

The Keetch Byram Drought Index, which runs from 0 to 800, is indicating an average of 661 in Highlands County, which is above normal for this time of year. The normal range for this time is 301-490.

Current fire season forecasts indicate that this season may be an average year for wildfires, but during an average year in a high wildfire state like Florida, homes and other values can be at risk if residents are not prepared, the press release adds.

Residents living in or near areas close to brush or wooded areas should make their homes safe from the threat of wildfires by following Firewise guidelines.

Structures should be surrounded by a buffer zone extending at least 30 feet. This area should be free of highly flammable vegetation and well maintained.Leaves, pine needles and twigs should be removed from roofs and gutters. Flammable materials including wood, vehicles and propane tanks, should not be stored next to the house.

In 2008, 94 wildfires in Highlands County burned 926 acres. This year so far, 26 wildfires have already burned 39 acres.

The public should be aware of homes that have been vacant for an extensive time frame near wooded flammable vegetation. These homes will be more susceptible to wildfires because the dry unmanaged vegetation (grass, palm fronds, pine needles) have been accumulating on or around the home, the release adds.

Tips To Stay Safe In Cold Weather:

•Dress appropriately before going outdoors. The air temperature does not have to be below freezing for someone to experience cold emergencies such as hypothermia and frostbite. Wind speed can create dangerously cold conditions even when the temperature is not that low.

•Dress in layers so you can adjust to changing conditions. Avoid overdressing or overexertion that can lead to heat illness.

•Most of your body heat is lost through your head so wear a hat, preferably one that covers your ears.

•Mittens provide more warmth to your hands than gloves.

•Get out of wet clothes immediately and warm the core body temperature with a blanket or warm fluids like hot cider or soup. Avoid drinking caffeine or alcohol if it seems that you or someone you are trying to help has hypothermia or frostbite.

•Remember to keep your pets indoors during very cold days and nights. In addition, protect plants that might be affected by the low temperatures.

Tips To Prevent Home Heating Fires During Cold Weather:

•Keep all potential fuel sources (newspapers, matches, bedding, clothing, carpets and rugs) at least three feet away from heat sources, such as space heaters, fireplaces and stoves.

•Provide constant adult supervision in rooms with lit candles or fires.

•Keep fire in the fireplace by using glass or metal fire screens.

•Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended. Extinguish the fire before going to bed or leaving the house.

•Never use a cooking range or oven to heat your home.

•Turn off portable space heaters every time you leave the room or go to sleep.

•Have wood and coal stoves, fireplaces, and chimneys inspected annually by a professional, and cleaned if necessary.

•If you must use space heaters, place them on a level, hard and nonflammable surface (such as ceramic tile floor), not on rugs or carpets or near bedding or drapes. Keep children and pets away from space heaters.

Courtesy: American Red Cross

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