The Rabun County wildfire which has been burning all week and rapidly spreading had consumed more than 1,000 acres by nightfall Thursday, according to a U.S. Forest Service (USFS) spokesman. Known as the Big Ridge Fire, it started Saturday afternoon and officials say they know it was “human caused,” but not whether it was was intentional or an accident.
NOON THURSDAY UPDATE:
Campfires have been banned until further notice across the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest in response to heightened fire danger caused by dry conditions due to weeks of high winds and low relative humidity. This U.S. Forest Service (USFS) says this will further reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires in the area and the campfire ban is effective immediately.
The restriction includes charcoal-based fires, and any other open flames across all four Ranger Districts on the Chattahoochee-Oconee. Visitors may continue using commercially available fuel stoves designed for cooking, the forest service said, while noting that fireworks are always prohibited in national forests, regardless of weather or conditions.
Meanwhile, a large fire that has been burning all week in the Chattahoochee in Rabun County and has consumed 500+ acres has people such as Ronnie and Donna Forrester watching things closely. The Gainesville couple has a second home “8-10 miles” from the fire, Ronnie Forrester said Wednesday.
“The smoke is visible from (our place) and appears to be getting worse,” he said. “From higher elevations nearby, the very extensive flames can be seen. With very dry conditions, winds, and no rain for several more days, we are certainly growing more concerned.”
Forrester said the fire, and everything associated with fighting it, such as helicopters, “have brought about change to our usual quiet and serene surroundings.”
MORE FROM THE USFS
“Most people don’t realize how frequent wildfires are in the South,” said Forest Supervisor Judy Toppins. “Since the beginning of the month, multiple fires have ignited on this national forest, along with large fires spreading on private and public lands in neighboring states.”
Toppins said firefighters have worked diligently to contain these blazes before they could grow out of control. Across the South, wildland firefighters and emergency responders are on high alert, battling fires and working to protect communities from the threat of fast-moving wildfires.
Mike Davis, fire management officer for the Chattahoochee-Oconee, emphasized the importance of following all burn bans and taking preventative measures around homes.
“Even small fires can quickly spread out of control, especially when conditions are this dry,” said Davis. “We urge residents to clear leaves and debris at least 30 feet away from buildings and to avoid any outdoor burning until conditions improve.”
Human activity causes an average of 87 percent of wildfires, often from escaped debris burns, unattended campfires and even sparks from vehicles or equipment. “Simple precautions, like properly extinguishing cigarettes, ensuring vehicles stay on designated roads, and avoiding outdoor flames, can make a significant impact in reducing wildfire risk,” Davis added. “If anyone observes suspicious activity involving fire in the forest, please call the Georgia Forestry Commission Arson Hotline 1-800-428-7337.”
For updates and more details on the fire ban, visit www.fs.usda.gov/conf. To learn more about wildfire prevention, visit SmokeyBear.com.
