7H

These counties lie within southeastern suburban communities. These areas have a higher demographic advantage and lower fire occurrence than other areas of the southeast.

Example of a Typical County — Walton County, Florida: This Florida panhandle county includes much of Eglin Air Force Base. Prescribed fire is routinely used to reduce fuels and maintain wildlife habitat.

National Priorities

Vegetation and Fuels Very Low
Homes, Communities and Values at Risk Moderate
Human-Caused Ignitions High
Effective and Efficient Response:
There is high risk of large wildfires, less potential for resource benefits.

Policy Options and Opportunities

Vegetation and Fuels
These counties have a history of prescribed fire and could expand or maintain use of this fuel management option. Many of these counties also have nearby forest products industries, so they may consider using mechanical treatments to create a buffer between the forest and the communities before using prescribed fire.

Homes, Communities and Values at Risk
Individual homeowners can be proactive on home defensive actions. Communities can plan and take coordinated action, in combination with individual actions by property owners. This can include the creation of buffers and strategic fuel breaks. These counties could adjust building and construction codes in municipal areas.

Human-Caused Ignitions
Human caused ignitions are a problem in these counties. Reduce accidental and human-caused ignitions through enforcement or outreach.

Effective and Efficient Wildfire Response
Response organizations continue to protect structures, treat fuels and target ignitions as local conditions apply.

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