The National Weather Service issued a Critical Fire Warning across the South Plains Monday.
A couple of grass fires got out of control Sunday, but fire crews moved quickly to get them back under control. West Carlisle Fire Captain Kevin Henricks said an increase in fires isn’t unusual around this time of year.
“I think around here we’ve seen our fair share of fires, and I think people are starting to realize that we have our fair share of fires, especially at this time of year when it’s starting to get hot, dry and windy, like it’s going to be today.”
Henricks said this year is shaping up to be a little different from years past.
“I think with it being this warm this early, we’ve already seen an increased risk in the fires, especially the wild land and grass fires.”
When trying to prevent a blaze, Henricks said common sense is key and help from the public is important.
“Avoid…any type of outdoor burning, whether it’s burning trash or whatever, it may be especially risky…discarded cigarettes can start fires.”
And if you think you see something that may be a fire, report it.
“Keep an eye out, no outdoor burning today of course, and if you see smoke, or think you see a fire or anything like that, just go ahead and call, so that way we can get on it early before it gets to be something big,” Henricks said.
