**Clay County is currently under a Red Flag Warning!**

 Several fires are active in the county, and officials from the forest service and local fire departments are responding to the situation.

 Please do not engage in any burning activities during this time, as wind gusts are expected to reach 20-30 mph until 10 p.m. tonight. 

A Red Flag Warning indicates that warm temperatures, very low humidity, and strong winds are creating an elevated fire risk.

 

- If burning is permitted in your area, all burn barrels must be covered with a weighted metal lid that has openings no larger than 3/4 of an inch.

- Do not dispose of cigarettes or matches from a moving vehicle, as they may ignite dry grass on the roadside and cause a wildfire.

- Ensure that all outdoor fires are properly extinguished. Douse fires with plenty of water and stir the ashes to ensure everything is cold to the touch. For charcoal, immerse it in water until completely cool. Never leave hot charcoal on the ground.

- Always attend to a fire. Sparks or embers can blow into leaves or grass, ignite a fire, and spread rapidly. 

 

Stay safe and vigilant!