FHP warns of wildfire driving danger

FORT MYERS, Fla. Drivers should know what to do in case they get stuck in smoke from a wildfire while they’re in traffic, the Florida Highway Patrol said.

Some North Naples residents felt like they needed to take it upon themselves to help put out a brush fire that broke out Monday near Interstate 75.

“There was cars everywhere and they were putting out fires on the side of the road,” said Troy Leming, who’s visiting from Kentucky. “We were coming down the highway … there were a lot of traffic stopped over, guys and gals outside of their cars and they were putting out small fires.”

The FHP doesn’t recommend trying to put out a fire. Instead, you should walk away from your car and call 911 or the FHP at *347 to alert authorities to the emergency.

You shouldn’t stop on the interstate if you can avoid it, but if you have to, turn on your hazard lights, the FHP said.

And avoid stopping your car on a grassy shoulder or median, if possible. The heat from your car could spark more flames, the Florida Forest Service said.