NC Forest Service warns of increased wildfire risk as fall season begins
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The N.C. Forest Service is urging residents to use extra caution with outdoor burning as North Carolina enters its fall wildfire season.
Wildfire activity typically increases from October through early December as falling leaves, dry vegetation and changing weather conditions can allow fires to spread quickly.
“Most wildfires in this state are preventable,” Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said. “Human activity continues to be responsible for more than 99% of wildfires in North Carolina, making individual actions one of our most important tools for preventing wildfires.”
Before burning, the Forest Service recommends checking for local burn bans or restrictions and checking weather conditions. People should never burn on dry or windy days and should make sure they have a valid burn permit when one is required.
Officials also recommend clearing leaves, pine needles and other flammable material from around a burn area and keeping fires small. Anyone conducting an outdoor burn should have tools, a water source and a cellphone nearby.
The Forest Service says people should never use gasoline, kerosene, diesel fuel or other flammable liquids to accelerate a fire. Only natural vegetation can legally be burned.
People should also remain with a fire until it is completely extinguished. The agency recommends thoroughly soaking embers with water, stirring them and soaking them again until they are cold to the touch.
Officials are also warning that wildfire prevention remains particularly important in communities recovering from Hurricane Helene, where storm-damaged forests have additional fuel on the ground.
“Storm-damaged forests have additional fuel on the ground, making it even more critical to use caution when burning and to avoid activities that could spark a wildfire,” Troxler said.
Outdoor burning is not the only potential source of wildfires. The Forest Service recommends using caution with machinery and equipment that can create sparks or heat, securing trailer chains so they do not drag on the roadway and properly disposing of cigarettes, matches and other flammable materials.
