After the harsh winter we just had, the springtime weather is refreshing. Along with the change in season, the weather conditions make wildfires a real threat to our community. Most only think of wildfires as those that engulf thousands of acres and burn for months in the western mountain regions of the US. In reality, no geographical location within the US is safe from wildfires.

While the wildfires we experience here in Maryland tend to be on a smaller scale in comparison to those out west, there is a real threat to our neighborhoods, fields, and wooded areas with fires consuming upwards of 20 acres not uncommon during the peak of the two fire seasons-- spring and fall.

Gusty winds, low humidity, and warmer temperatures over the past several weeks have resulted in prime conditions for wildfires. Lisbon VFC and the surrounding fire companies have responded to numerous field fires that have quickly spread to large surface areas.

95% of wildfires in Maryland are started by man and not by natural sources of ignition. While all open burns in Howard County require a burn permit, we ask that all citizens take extra caution during this fire season. Cigarette butts should be disposed of appropriately and not tossed on the ground or out the window of a vehicle (numerous fires along roadways have been ignited this way), charcoal ashes should be fully extinguished and fire-free for a minimum of 48 hours before disposal, refrain from camp and yard waste fires, etc. All it takes is a single spark and a dry blade of grass for a large fire to breakout.

During the past week, currently, and for the foreseeable future, central Maryland is under a "red flag" warning. The partnership between the National Weather Service and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Forest Service allows for open communication in reference to current and projected fire weather behavior based on temperature, humidity, and wind. When the DNR has issued a red flag warning, all open burns are prohibited and enforced by local jurisdictions. Current red flag fire watches and warnings can be viewed at www.nws.noaa.gov/largemap.php

Should you want to apply for a burn permit, or want additional information in regards to wildfire safety, please contact Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue at 410-313-6000.

As a community, we depend on each other to prevent wildfires. Can we count on you?