March has been proclaimed Wildfire Prevention Month by Gov. Tate Reeves, according to an announcement from the Mississippi Forestry Commission.

March has historically had one of the highest wildfire occurrence rates of the year due to the transition from winter to spring, dry vegetation, and windy conditions. Wildfire Prevention Month highlights the responsibility of Mississippians to help protect forests, their homes and their lives by focusing on how to prevent wildfires.

MFC is the only state agency charged with suppressing, monitoring and detecting wildfire activity in the state’s forestland. Wildland Firefighters work long hours in demanding and dangerous conditions to protect lives, homes and natural resources.

In the past Fiscal Year, MFC Wildland Firefighters suppressed 1,422 wildfires that burned more than 40,000 acres, 966 houses, commercial buildings and other structures were saved from wildfires, and 33 structures were damaged or destroyed.

“Very few wildfires in Mississippi are ignited by lightning or natural causes,” said MFC State Forester Russell Bozeman. “Most are started by accidental activities by people. The leading cause of wildfires in our state is escaped debris burns. Therefore, with proper care, these fires could have been prevented.”

To help prevent wildfires, MFC offers these tips:

• Check for local or statewide burn bans at http://mfc.ms.gov
• Check local weather forecasts. Do not burn on dry, windy days.
• Choose a safe burn site away from flammable materials, and surround the ground around your burn site with bare dirt or gravel.
• Only burn untreated wood debris. Do not burn plastic, rubber tires or other manufactured materials.
• Always have a water source close by.
• Never leave a fire unattended.

“Mississippi’s 19.2 million acres of forestland are vital to the health and well-being of the state,” Bozeman said. “The MFC thanks Gov. Reeves for his proclamation, and we ask all Mississippians to be responsible when burning on their property. Remember, only you can prevent wildfires.”

To report a wildfire, call 833-MFC-Fire (833-632-3473). Contact law enforcement if you witness someone violating local burn bans or burning prohibited items. For more information, visit http://mfc.ms.gov