Jackson County-Most people aren't concerned about wildfires until it's too late. Forestry crews have already battled about 2100 wildfires in Florida this year and 2010 has been an average year. Forestry officials are trying to educate area residents about the dangers and prevention methods.

The images of wildfires usually don't hit close to home until it's your home.
Forestry officials tried to make Jackson County residents more fire conscious Tuesday night during a 'Firewise' seminar.

"No, I had no idea, it was very informative," says Greenwood resident Diane Caputo, who was surprised by how little it actually takes for one to start.
"I think my fence needs to be cleaned off because I am close to a wooded area and I can see that if the wooded area catches on fire, it would catch all the junk that's blowing on the fence."

"Wildland fire is a very natural process in the state of Florida, it could happen anywhere at any time," says Florida Division of Forestry's PIO Brian Goddin.
Fire officials say basic precautions, like avoiding flammable materials to maintaining a 'safety zone', will reduce your chances of losing your home to wildfire damage.
"We obviously don't want to come in and tell people to change everything about the way they live and their homes and their yards and everything. But we do want to make them aware of things they can do to make their homes safe."

"Put metal on your roof and do not to have a wooded porch," says 9-year-old Joe Giles.
Some people like Giles weren't shy about voicing their opinion.
"And you gotta be careful, if you see fire, call 911!"

The seminar also allowed people to share collective ideas on how to educate their communities.
"Translate it into action!"
Division of Forestry representatives say they were pleased overall by the event turnout.
"It was a fun night!"

For more information on wildfire protection, contact your local Division of Forestry office.