With brush fire season in full swing, people need to be extra careful, and refrain from burning outdoors.

John McArdle, Nesquehoning Hose Company fire chief, reminds residents that with the current dry conditions, fire spreads quickly and can turn from small controlled fires to large wildfires.

According to the National Weather Service, there is also an elevated risk this afternoon and early evening for spread of any fires that are burning outside.

“A combination of low relative humidity, gusty westerly winds, and dry fine fuels will lead to an elevated risk for fire spread with any potential fire starts this afternoon,” the National Weather Service reported. “Residents are urged to exercise caution if handling any potential ignition source, including machinery, cigarettes, and matches. Be sure to properly discard all smoking materials. Any dry grasses, dead leaves, and other tree litter that ignite will have the potential to spread fire quickly.”

McArdle said it is best to refrain from outdoor burning at least until “trees green up and we have sufficient amount of rain.”

He also reminded Nesquehoning residents that a burn ban is in effect until later this month.