State forestry officials are encouraging Alabama residents to be careful about burning because of the continuing dry weather across the state.

The latest U.S. Drought Monitor report shows much of Alabama is under abnormally dry or drought conditions. Escambia County is in the “abnormally dry” range.

“At this time, the Alabama Forestry Commission has not issued any restricted burning orders for the state. However, we urge everyone to use extreme caution with all debris burning and outdoor fire, including campfires,” said State Forester Linda Casey. “The little amount of rain we’ve received this summer and existing dry conditions could potentially contribute to extremely hazardous wildfire behavior.”

In the last seven days, there have been 121 wildfires burning over 1,200 Alabama acres. For more information on the current wildfire situation, visit the AFC website at www.forestry.alabama.gov/fire_totals.aspx

It is an Alabama state law to obtain a burn permit before you burn any woodland, grassland, field, or wood debris greater than ¼ acre or within 25 feet of flammable material. Be sure to clear down to mineral soil around the area to be burned. Have enough tools, equipment, and manpower to effectively control your fire. Once started, stay with the fire until it is completely out. To obtain a burn permit, call 1-800-242-2504.