WARNING - Fast Spreading Brush Fires Possible Today

MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930

mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

From the National Weather Service:

THIS HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK IS FOR THE MARYLAND PORTION OF THE
CHESAPEAKE BAY...TIDAL POTOMAC RIVER...AND ADJACENT COUNTIES IN
CENTRAL MARYLAND AND NORTHERN VIRGINIA AS WELL AS THE DISTRICT OF
COLUMBIA.

.DAY ONE...TODAY AND TONIGHT

THERE WILL BE AN ENHANCED THREAT OF WILDFIRES FROM LATE MORNING
THROUGH EARLY EVENING. A SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT HAS BEEN
ISSUED.

The Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department have responded to numerous outside fires today. Two of these fast moving brush fires today impinged upon homes and damaged the siding.  With warm temperatures, low humidity and gusty winds the potential for fast moving brush fire are high.

If you see smoke or fire in areas of brush or woods, call 911.  The sooner we get there to contain the fire the better.

Here are some additional tips from the Fire/EMS Department:

* Dispose of smoking materials in an appropriate container and ensure they are completely extinguished. Do not discard these items into any open area as they may start a fire that will spread rapidly. Do not dispose of smoking materials out of your vehicle when traveling.

* Use caution when using power tools outdoors, especially those that will generate a spark.  Have a extinguishing agent; water hose, bucket of sand, portable extinguisher, etc. nearby while working outdoors.

* Business owners and property managers should have appropriate disposable containers in areas where smoking occurs outside.

* Burning brush or trash is illegal within Prince George's County without appropriate approval and permits.  If there is an upgrade to a Red Flag Warning than any permitted burns may be cancelled.

* We request that you limit the use outside grills or cooking equipment during these times. If you must, ensure you have some type of extinguishing agent nearby (water hose, bucket of sand, fire extinguisher, etc.)  Stand by for Red Flag Warning when we recommend all outdoor cooking be terminated.

* If you have fireplace ashes; you must put them into a sealed metal container placed on a concrete surface away from any structures. If possible – wait to clean your fireplace until this weather event is over.

* Never park your vehicle on top of a pile a leaves.  

* Use common sense and practice sound fire safety habits.