Umatilla Fire Department

05/07/2026

Lake County remains under an active burn ban due to ongoing dry conditions and elevated wildfire risk. Even a small flame can quickly turn into a dangerous situation.🔥

🚫 No outdoor burning of any kind:
- No yard debris burning (leaves, brush, tree limbs)
- No campfires or bonfires
- No open flames outdoors, even if attended

These restrictions are in place to protect lives and property, and to support our first responders who are ready to respond when seconds matter. For any questions, call (352) 343-9458.

04/21/2026

04/15/2026

!!Attention !!

Use extreme caution on Wiygul Road, there is heavy smoke in the area. Visibility is 10 to 50 feet. Avoid the area if possible. 

03/13/2026

**BURN BAN ISSUED IN LAKE COUNTY**

A burn ban is in effect for Lake County until further notice due to the extreme wildfire threat from increasingly dry conditions. The decision follows the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) reaching 500 or higher, activating the County’s wildfire prevention protocol.

For more information, visit: https://www.lakecountyfl.gov/news/5235

Florida Forest Service - Withlacoochee Forestry Center

03/05/2026

Wildfires are caused by a spark (usually man-made) in the presence of fuel (dry vegetation) and oxygen.🔥 Strong winds, high temperatures, low humidity and drought conditions can further impact the fire’s spread. To stay Weather-Ready and protect yourself from wildfires, visit weather.gov/safety/wildfire

02/14/2026

UFD E-17 and LCFR M-17 are currently responding to a motor vehicle collision on South Central Ave. near the Mebane St. intersection. Please use caution or avoid the areas at this time.

02/05/2026

Recently Eustis Fire Department awarded two firefighters who also work right here with us in Umatilla! A special congratulations to:
Firefighter of the Year:
Engineer/EMT John McDermott
Paramedic of the Year:
Senior Engineer/ Paramedic/FTO Chris Benway!
Your dedication and commitment to your profession shows!

02/02/2026

01/31/2026

🥶 EXTREME COLD WARNING: Record-breaking temperatures expected this weekend!
Protect yourself:

• ❄️ Dress in layers
• ❄️ Cover all exposed skin
• ❄️ Limit time outdoors
• 🐾 Bring pets indoors

Between the wind chill and air temperature, extreme cold can be dangerous. Take it seriously, Lake County. Text COLD to 888-777 for updates.

01/31/2026

📢 STAY INFORMED: Arctic cold arrives this weekend with dangerous temperatures and wind chills. Follow Lake County Emergency Management and US NWS Melbourne Florida for the latest updates and safety information.

Cold weather shelters are opening. For real-time updates text COLD to 888-777. Visit www.ready.gov for more preparedness tips.