‘Fire-wise’ principles save homes from Charlotte County brush fire

PUNTA GORDA, Fla. Two homes were spared from the flames of a 23-acre brush fire that ignited near Tuckers Grade on Wednesday because the homeowners adhered to “fire-wise” principles.

These principles include keeping gutters and lawns clear of debris, the grass cut low and flammables away from the house, as this makes it more difficult for the flames to spread, the Florida Forestry Service said.

“The radiant heat from the palmettos or even just the grass is unbelievable,” Florida Forest ranger J.P. Desilets said. “It could very easily start igniting the curtains in your room.”

As Charlotte County remains under “extreme fire danger,” fire officials say it’s important homeowners do their part to protect their property, as there’s only so much firefighters can do.

“It may almost be to the point where we can’t do anything to this house because we’re going to endanger ourselves to try and stop it (the fire),” Desilets said. “All we can do (at that point) is have the fire department sit at the road and maybe spray water on it.”

Homeowners are advised to clear a 30-foot radius around their houses.