Gov. Nathan Deal is helping raise awareness about the importance of fire for healthy forests by proclaiming Feb. 2-8 Prescribed Fire Awareness Week.

“Prescribed burning of Georgia forest lands is a valuable tool for protecting the forest from devastating wildfires and managing valuable wildlife species,” states the proclamation, which will be signed Wednesday at the State Capitol.

Professional foresters and other land resource managers, including the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, use prescribed burning to improve forest health, reduce hazardous fuels, enhance reforestation and restore wildlife habitats.

Established in 2005 through the efforts of the Georgia Forestry Commission and the Georgia Prescribed Fire Council, Prescribed Fire Week is observed during the first full week of February. The focus recognizes prescribed fire as a safe way to apply a natural process, ensure ecosystem health and reduce wildfire risk.