White County Fire Services is urging the public to exercise caution in fire-prone areas after responding to seven bushfires in the past week.
The fires began on Nov. 1 due to dry conditions and gusty winds in the area.
“The swift and dedicated efforts from local firefighters have successfully contained and extinguished all seven fires, ensuring the safety of residents and the protection of our natural surroundings,” the release from the department said.
The most significant brush fire occurred near the 900 block of Gold Valley Road in Sautee-Nacoochee. Reported by a passerby, the blaze damaged two outdoor sheds, a camper and a trailer. The brush fire spread to roughly 2.5 acres and was contained by fire personnel. The Helen Fire Department and the Georgia Forestry Commission supported White County Fire Services in this response. The cause of the brush fire is undetermined at this time.
The department said residents can prevent fires by avoiding open flames and properly disposing of smoking materials. White County Fire officials also ask that residents refrain from burning while relative humidity is low. If you are burning and the fire becomes out of control, call 911 immediately.
As of Monday, the US Drought Monitor categorizes White County as under a severe/moderate drought.
