Charlotte Fire Department

Brush fires kept Charlotte Firefighters busy Saturday through Tuesday this week. High winds exacerbated drought conditions that have plagued the Charlotte Metropolitan region for much of the winter season.

Firefighters around the city have responded to more than 40 calls for brush/vegetation fires, which is not the typical number of responses within such a short timespan. Several fires threatened structures, but firefighters were able to extinguish them before any significant damage was done. There were no injuries associated with these fires.

The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning on Saturday alerting area firefighters that conditions are ideal for wildland fire ignition and propagation. During drought conditions and when high or erratic winds are a factor, the Red Flag Warning is critical information for firefighting agencies, which may need to adjust staffing and equipment resources in preparation of the forecasted fire risk. For the public, a Red Flag Warning means high fire danger with increased probability of a quickly spreading vegetation fires within their locality.

On Monday February 21, 2011 the Charlotte Fire Department Office of the Fire Marshal and the Mecklenburg County Fire Marshal’s Office issued a burning ban that is inclusive of all outdoor burning. They have also cancelled all burning permits. This ban remains in effect until further notice.

The Charlotte Fire Department urges the population to keep in mind the following safety precautions when enjoying the outdoors:

• Stay Alert - Dispose of smoking materials properly and avoid parking vehicles where the exhaust system may come in contact with dry vegetation.

• Stay Safe - Avoid grilling on or near wooden decks, grass or pine straw.

• Stay Alive - Call 911 promptly if you witness a brush fire.

Submitted by:

Mark Basnight | Captain

Public Information Officer

Office of Media & Public Affairs

Charlotte Fire Department