LEE COUNTY, Fla. -- The Florida Forest Service described Lee County at a "very high risk" for fire danger on their fire danger index Sunday.
They have also placed Charlotte County under a "high" risk.
Crews have been battling fires almost daily in Southwest Florida. A few fires sparked Sunday, including one along I-75 and a fire that re-sparked in Punta Gorda, after crews spent hours fighting it on Friday.
"We've seen an uptick in the frequency of wild land fires we respond to in what we call 'urban interface', which is people who live along wooded areas we respond to," said Gene Rogers, with South Trail Fire Rescue. "We're combating that by staffing adequately and preparing adequately to respond to these incidents."
Wind, low humidity and unusually dry conditions in SWFL are all contributing factors to recent fires. However, Rogers says residents can help fire fighters battle flames by clearing your area. "In the event that you do live in a high prone area and there are access issues, make sure access is available for responders."
Preventing fires is key according to Rogers. He reminded people to clear their roof and gutters of flammable debris and keep a close eye on sources of fire. "Barbeque grills, fireworks, hot exhausts from lawn mowers, and other equipment. Those types of things are preventable."
Lee and Charlotte Counties are estimated to be at the same risk on Monday.
