Escambia County Urging Cold Weather and Wildfire Safety Oct. 18-19

As a powerful cold front pushes across Escambia County beginning Tuesday and continuing throughout Wednesday, residents are encouraged to monitor the cold weather and avoid outdoor burning throughout the cold front. Dry conditions due to the cold front will allow for the potential of extreme fire behavior.

According to the US National Weather Service in Mobile, Ala., a combination of winds around 15 mph, low relative humidity and dry fuels may contribute to extreme fire behavior on Tuesday, Oct. 18. A Red Flag Warning will be in effect from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on Tuesday for areas along and southeast of the I-65 corridor. Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. 

"As the weather cools down, many citizens and scouting groups head to the campgrounds," said Fire and Life Specialist Ray Melton. "ECFR wants to remind our citizens that before you leave for camping, check the weather conditions and fire risk levels for the areas you will be camping in. Always have a plan in place and know what to do if a wildland fire should occur near you. You should always have a source to extinguish a campfire and never leave them unattended."

Along with the Red Flag Warning, northern portions of Escambia County have been placed under a freeze watch. The freeze watch will be in place beginning Wednesday, Oct. 19, at 1 a.m. and will remain in effect until 8 a.m.

Remember the Five P's of Cold Weather Safety:

• Protect People: Remember to dress in layers and wear a hat and gloves. It is important to try to stay out of the wind and to stay dry. Also, remember to check on young children and elderly family members and neighbors who are the most sensitive to cold weather. If the temperature cannot be maintained at a home, make temporary arrangements to stay elsewhere, including with friends and family.
• Protect Pets: If cold weather is in the forecast, be sure to bring outdoor pets inside or give them a warm shelter to stay in.
• Protect Plants: Cover cold-sensitive plants to protect them from dangerous temperatures.
• Protect Pipes: Cover pipes and allow outdoor faucets to slowly drip to prevent freezing and breaking.
• Practice Fire Safety: Use safe heating sources indoors. Do not use fuel-burning devices such as grills; they release carbon monoxide, which is a deadly gas. Also, make sure to use space heaters according to their instructions and be attentive to open flames.

For more information, monitor the local media and legitimate online and social media sources like Escambia County Emergency Management, US National Weather Service Mobile, and Florida SERT. 

Weather Update from the US National Weather Service - Mobile (Updated Oct. 17, 2022 at 5:58 a.m.)