Effective at noon today, the Duval County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) began operating at Level 3 activation to monitor the extreme fire danger conditions that exist throughout Northeast Florida.  Concurrent with the local activation, the State of Florida's EOC is operating at a Level 2 (partial activation) and the Division of Forestry issued their highest, most severe warning indicating extreme fire danger.

Residents are encouraged to take protective measures to help prevent wildfires near their homes. This includes:

 Keeping lawns trimmed, leaves raked, and the roof and rain gutters free from debris such as dead limbs and leaves

Stacking firewood at least 30 feet away from your residence

Storing flammable materials, liquids and solvents in metal containers outside your residence at least 30 feet away from structures and wooden fences

Removing branches hanging above and around the chimney

A more comprehensive listing of preventative measures is included in the attached document prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Residents are also reminded that Duval County prohibits "open burning" on premises, this includes the burning of yard waste (grass clippings, brush, leaves, tree limbs, palm fronds, etc.) on the premises. Citizens are also encouraged to use extreme caution when using and disposing of items that may spark a fire such as cigarettes and fireworks.  

If a wildfire begins in your area, call 911. If you are advised to evacuate, do so immediately.  Choose a route away from the fire hazard and watch for changes in the speed and direction of the fire and smoke.

Wildfire Fact Sheet  (PDF 148K)