The South Carolina Forestry Commission has declared a Red Flag Fire Alert for several counties in South Carolina.
The alert warns that fire danger is increasing and that outdoor fires may become difficult to control.
Forestry authorities say stiff winds and low daytime and nighttime relative humidity may perpetuate dangerous conditions in the coming days. Citizens are asked to postpone outdoor burning until conditions improve. The SCFC issued the warning for the following counties:
- Lancaster
- Kershaw
- Sumter
- Clarendon
- Williamsburg
- Florence
- Georgetown
- Horry
- Dillon
- Marlboro
- Chesterfield
- Darlington
- Marion
- Lee
Over the weekend, the SCFC responded to an estimated 221 additional fires, nearly doubling the the statewide total to 447 wildfires statewide in February.
While the Red Flag is issued for the Pee Dee region, the SCFC is requesting residents statewide to postpone outdoor burning due to high temps, low relative humidity, and sustained winds, all of which increase the risk for fire escaping and becoming wildfire.
While burning is not prohibited under a Red Flag, it is a violation of state law to allow fire to escape. Escaped fires can result in fines and court costs of more than $450. For more information, visit http://www.trees.sc.gov/baninfo.htm .
Suspected wildfires should be promptly reported to 911 or the Forestry Commission Dispatch Center: 1-800-777-FIRE.
