USDA Forest Service fire specialists will burn 28,000 acres in Covington and Escambia counties, the agency announced this week.

The purpose of controlled burns (prescribed fire) is to reduce hazardous fuels such as fallen trees and brush that could feed into wildfires, and to improve the plant and animal habitats that depend on fire.

Controlled burns take place annually only if weather conditions are favorable. The Forest Service is asking the public to use low beam lights and watch for uniformed Forest Service personnel while driving. At times, visibility may be reduced because of smoke settling at night in low lying areas.

Maps that highlight controlled burn areas can be viewed online at www.fs.usda.gov/alabama under the Know Before You Go section.

For questions about the planned burns in the Conecuh, call (334) 222-2555.