February, March, and April are often the driest months of the year in Southwest Florida.
Though this also makes up what many consider to be the nicest time of the year in our piece of paradise, it comes at a cost. Dry weather in Southwest Florida increases the threat of wildfires and that risk is highest during the stretch of months we're entering now.
With each so-called "fire season" that comes and goes, our office is often asked why firefighters intentionally set fires that people hear about on TV. These fires are referred to as controlled or prescribed burns because they are set for a purpose, and if everything goes to plan will remain within their predetermined boundaries.
The most important reason to the average Southwest Floridian at home why controlled or prescribed burns are set is a big one.