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Davie Fire Rescue urges Southwest Ranches to prepare defensible space as wildfire season nears
Summary
Davie Fire Rescue briefed the Town of Southwest Ranches on wildfire risk in the urban–wildland interface, outlined engine and well capabilities, mutual-aid arrangements and homeowner steps such as creating 30-foot defensible space and hardening roofs and vents.
Davie Fire Rescue personnel told the Town of Southwest Ranches council on March 3 that wildland-urban interface fires can spread rapidly and that coordinated local preparations can reduce risk.
"As your fire rescue department, our top priority is keeping you safe, especially from the growing risk of wildland fires in the urban–wildland interface," said Chris Abramek, Operations Chief, Davie Fire Rescue, in a presentation to the council and residents. He described local vegetation (sawgrass, pine rocklands and cypress) and noted that conditions such as dry weather and high winds increase the threat.
Abramek said the department’s newer engines typically carry about 1,000 gallons of water and pumps capable of roughly 1,500 gallons per minute for initial suppression. The town also relies on a mix of hydrants and privately sited fire wells that draw from the Biscayne aquifer and local canals; annual testing of those wells is underway to ensure pumps and hoses function during a response.
He noted mutual-aid agreements that provide access to helicopters, air support and specialized wildland apparatus from state and county partners and said the Florida Forest Service can perform prescribed burns to reduce fuel loads.
The presentation included practical advice for residents: trim vegetation and remove dead plants, maintain about 30 feet of clear space around homes, use fire-resistant roofing and siding materials, keep gutters and vents clear of flammable debris, stay informed of fire alerts and have an evacuation plan.
In a council question-and-answer, Abramek said open burns must meet agricultural permit rules and are routed through the department’s dispatch; only certain days and conditions permit burning. He also said wells that develop sediment can often be cleaned or repaired by contractors but occasionally must be replaced.
The briefing concluded with council praise for the presentation and a commitment to continue coordinating with county and state wildland specialists, while encouraging residents to adopt the recommended preparedness steps.
