Clarendon County Fire Rescue crews responded to eight woods and grass fires over a three-day period as dry, windy conditions prompted a statewide Red Flag Fire Alert over the weekend, officials said.
According to Clarendon County Fire Rescue, the fires occurred between Jan. 10 and Jan. 12 and burned an estimated 25 acres combined across the county. The South Carolina Forestry Commission issued the Red Flag Fire Alert on Saturday due to strong gusty winds and low relative humidity, conditions that increase the risk of wildfires spreading rapidly.
Lt. April Conyers, public education and information officer for Clarendon County Fire Rescue, said outdoor burning was the leading cause of the weekend fires.
“People thought their fire was out and left it smoldering,” Conyers said. “Some of the fires we responded to had unknown origins, but outdoor burning continues to be a major problem.”
One of the larger incidents occurred along Moses Dingle Road, where fire crews responded to a woods fire Sunday evening. The roadway was temporarily closed while firefighters worked with the South Carolina Forestry Commission to bring the fire under control. Forestry officials secured a break around the fire, and all lanes were later reopened. Fire units remained on scene to assist the power company due to downed lines.
The Forestry Commission lifted the Red Flag Fire Alert effective 6 a.m. Monday, Jan. 12, after officials said wind conditions had largely subsided. However, both state and local officials emphasized that dry fuels remain typical for this time of year, and outdoor burning still requires caution.
Although the alert has been lifted, Conyers urged residents to take preventive steps before burning debris or yard waste.
“Always have a water source or tools nearby that can fully extinguish the fire,” she said. “Make sure your water hose will actually reach where you’re burning before you ever light the fire.”
She also emphasized the importance of never leaving a fire unattended.
“Stay with your fire,” Conyers said. “Never leave it to go inside or run errands. If you have to leave, make sure the fire is completely out.”
State law requires anyone planning to burn outdoors outside city limits to notify the South Carolina Forestry Commission in advance and obtain a burn number, even for small debris piles. Officials also recommend clearing a firebreak around the burn area and keeping water or tools on standby.
Fire officials said the weekend fires serve as a reminder of how quickly conditions can change and how easily outdoor fires can escape control if proper precautions are not taken.
Residents are encouraged to monitor weather conditions, follow guidance from emergency officials, and use caution when burning outdoors.
