North Fort Myers brush fire being investigated as arson

Deputies are now investigating Monday’s North Fort Myers brush fire as arson, and they’re searching for the person who started it.

Tuesday, crews worked to clear debris after the fire that scorched 40 acres. The fire is now 100 percent contained.

Strong winds in the forecast for Wednesday could reignite if potential fuel like brush and debris isn’t cleared.

You can help reduce the risk of fire by clearing around your home too.

MAP: Active fires in Florida

Neighbor Amanda Wynn recalled Monday’s blaze, “It was kinda way far back for a while, but then the wind picked up and it was right over this tree line.”

North Fort Myers fire crews know the forecast and are taking all necessary measures.

“We know how brush fire season goes,” says Christi Kulwicki with North Fort Myers fire. “It can go really bad and drought can be terrible or it can go optimistic.”

Crews say it only takes minutes for a brush fire to spread because of flying debris, so they ask all homeowners to clean up their properties of debris.

Kulwicki  reminds, “It’s just like hurricane season, preparation, preparation, preparation, and it will lower the effects.”

Fire crews say they’ll be back out Wednesday morning monitoring the area just in case.