The forests of our area are on fire. Disturbing numbers of wildfires are dotting the area now, many of which have been started by the simple, avoidable carelessness of human behavior.

As residents here, we must recognize our responsibility to protect these hills for ourselves and future generations.

The consequences of wildfire devastation are all too real. Wildfires can sweep through communities, consuming homes, threatening lives and destroying local ecosystems that take decades to recover.

As trees burn, the very soil beneath them becomes destabilized.

Our forests provide clean air. They act as natural flood barriers and are the bedrock of our environment. When we lose them to flames, we risk our health, homes, jobs and way of life.

The lit cigarette tossed onto dry grass, a campfire left unattended, the trash illegally burning in windy conditions—all are acts of negligence that can turn a tiny spark into a monster blaze.

Each represents a tragedy that can be prevented.

Martin County Judge/Executive Lon Lafferty issued an executive order last week prohibiting all open burning due to the extremely dry conditions.

So what can we do?

We can refrain from open burning and protect our hills.