Hardee County Fire Rescue

Stay informed about current wildfire conditions in Hardee County. Visit the Florida Forest Service for the latest updates and safety information.

https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Wildland-Fire/Current-Wildfire-Information

Hardee County Fire Rescue encourages our residents to stay mindful of weather conditions and practice safe burning guidelines.

Hardee County Emergency Management
Hardee County BOCC
City of Wauchula - Government
City of Bowling Green, Florida

‘Thank You’ to Hardee County Fire Rescue for hosting our High School Law Enforcement Academy students this morning. Our students were encouraged by the motivation and teamwork required to be successful in the fire safety career field.

UPDATE: SOURCE OF SMOKE LOCATED

Hardee County Fire Rescue and Florida Forest Service personnel have located the source of the smoke that has been reported in recent weeks in the Crewsville and Zolfo Springs area.

The source has been identified as a muck fire located approximately one-half mile south of the Town of Zolfo Springs wastewater treatment plant. The fire is currently contained and is being monitored by fire personnel.

Muck fires occur when organic material beneath the surface ignites and burns underground. Because these fires burn below ground level, they can be difficult to locate and may continue to smolder for extended periods of time, producing visible smoke and noticeable odors even when little or no flame is present.

Residents in the area may continue to see smoke and detect smoke-related odors, particularly during the evening, overnight, and early morning hours when weather conditions can cause smoke to settle closer to the ground. Based on current conditions, the fire is expected to continue smoldering until the area receives sufficient rainfall to saturate the affected ground and extinguish the remaining hot spots.

We appreciate the assistance provided by community members who reported observations and helped responders identify the source of the smoke. Hardee County Fire Rescue and the Florida Forest Service will continue to monitor the area and take appropriate action as needed.

UPDATE: HCFR crews and FFS are on scene of a muck fire. Post to follow.

Hardee County Fire Rescue is aware of recurring reports of smoke observed during the evening and overnight hours in the Crewsville area extending toward Highway 17 in Zolfo Springs. Reports have also included the odor of burning rubber or plastic in the area.

Fire crews have responded to and investigated these reports on multiple occasions. During these investigations, no active fire has been located.

Residents who observe visible flames or can provide a specific location associated with the smoke are encouraged to contact 911. Timely and accurate location information can assist responding crews in determining the source and directing the appropriate emergency response.

Hardee County is not currently under a burn ban. Agricultural burning and land-clearing activities remain permitted in accordance with applicable regulations, and burn authorizations continue to be issued by the Florida Forest Service when conditions permit.

Hardee County Fire Rescue will continue to remain vigilant, monitor conditions, and investigate reported smoke conditions as needed. Accurate location information helps ensure resources are deployed effectively while maintaining emergency response coverage throughout Hardee County.

PROCLAMATION

The Hardee County Board of County Commissioners was proud to recognize May 17–23, 2026, as Emergency Medical Services Week in Hardee County at their recent meeting.

Emergency medical services are a vital part of protecting the health and safety of our community. Every day, the dedicated members of Hardee County Fire Rescue stand ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide lifesaving care when our residents need it most.

Our EMS system is built on teamwork, including firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, dispatchers, law enforcement partners, healthcare professionals, and many others who work together to deliver critical care during emergencies.

Through thousands of hours of training, continuing education, and hands-on experience, these professionals remain prepared to respond with skill and compassion during some of life’s most difficult moments.

The Board extends its appreciation to our EMS providers for their dedication, service, and commitment to the residents and visitors of Hardee County.

Thank you, Hardee County Fire Rescue , for always answering the call.

3 more days to vote for Tanker 3!

🚒 Voting for the 2026 Fire & Rescue Vehicle Graphics Contest is OPEN!

The Florida Sheriffs Association and the Florida Fire Chiefs' Association invite you to check out this year’s incredible entries from fire and rescue agencies across the state and cast your vote for your favorite vehicle design.

🗓️ Voting Period: Now through Monday, May 18 at 9:00 AM ET
🏆 One winning agency will earn top recognition

Show your support by voting and sharing with your community, colleagues, and supporters!

🔗 Vote now: https://woobox.com/ah8bs7/gallery?web=1

Keep the votes coming Hardee County!
You may be able to vote again, if you've already voted.

https://woobox.com/ah8bs7/gallery?web=1

Once again, our crews are stepping up to support the community! Please join us Aug. 1st for the Back to School Bash!