Spring Burning Season Is Here. What You Need To Know Before You Light It

Spring has arrived across the area, and with it comes an increase in outdoor burning. While conditions may look safe at a glance, it does not take much for a controlled burn to turn into a fast-moving grass fire.

Even when there is no official burn ban in place, residents should still use caution before lighting any fire. Dry vegetation, shifting winds, and low humidity can quickly create dangerous conditions that become hard to control.

Before starting a burn, check the current status for your area every time. Conditions can change through the day, and what feels safe in the morning may not be safe later on.

If you do plan to burn, make sure you are prepared. Keep a water source nearby, along with tools such as a shovel or rake. Never leave a fire unattended, even for a short time.

One of the most common problems firefighters see this time of year is a fire left alone “just for a minute” that gets away when the wind shifts.

If a fire begins to spread beyond your control, call 911 right away. Early response can make the difference between a small grass fire and a major incident.