Fire Danger Increasing

Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain, D.V.M., urges citizens to use caution as wildfire risk remains elevated due to dry conditions across much of our state.

“Nearly two dozen parishes have already instituted burn bans as dry weather continues,” Strain said. “Fortunately, we have had very little wind but that is about to change as a cool front is predicted to move through the state bringing lower humidity and increased wind. It is a recipe for potentially dangerous wildfires.”

Strain said everyone needs to do their part to help prevent wildfires.

• Don’t park vehicles or equipment on dry grass
• Re-fuel machinery in areas void of vegetation
• Never throw lit cigarettes on the ground, use an ashtray.

“Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) firefighting crews stand ready to take action if needed,” Strain said. “Our surveillance planes fly routes daily looking for smoke from wildfires.”