The fire danger level has been elevated across Nebraska due to dry and windy conditions. LFR Public Information Officer MJ Lierman says any fires that develop will likely spread quickly and encourages residents to be extra cautious with outdoor fires.
“Evenings ate getting cooler and people like to start their fire pits,” Lierman says. She recommends having a water source nearby in case a fire spreads to the grass. Fire pits need to be at least 25 to 30 feet away from a house or garage.
Lierman says with grass and leaves being so dry and spark from a cigarette can cause a fire to spread rapidly. “Cigarettes can smolder for a long time and cause problems later.” She says make sure they are out before disposing them, especially on apartment decks.
On Sunday several departments battled a fire near 46th and Bennett Road. It burned several acres of corn and trees.