Spring brings with it a new set of concerns for the local rescue services. Gone are the icy roads and snow laden roofs and in their place is a large increase in the number of brush fires in the Pocono Mountains and the valley, and a drowning in the Lehigh River.

Lake Harmony Fire Chief Ralph Lennon is appealing to residents to use common sense."It really is a matter of common sense when it comes to preventing brush fires," said Lennon. "First, you need to know if there is a burn ban in place. You can find this out by contacting your local firehouse or the county nonemergency line at the control center."Lennon, whose firefighters were among the legions of firefighters called out last week to fight the Sandy Valley fire in Luzerne County, gave some simple reminders on how to safely conduct a controlled burn."Even if there is no burn ban in effect, you need to make sure it is not windy, you are not too close to structures, you have chosen an open area and never leave the fire unattended. In Kidder Township, where Lake Harmony Volunteer Fire Company is located, you cannot start a burn before sunrise or within one hour of sunset. So you should know your local rules," Lennon said."Also, you should have a water supply handy whenever you start a fire," he added.Lennon also suggested that residents should call the nonemergency line of the county 911 center and report a "controlled burn" so that they are aware of your location.Another issue that arises in the spring and summer are drownings related to fishing in the Lehigh River and other local bodies of water."We have some fast-moving rivers and streams in the area, and often fishermen not familiar with the area can get into trouble," he said.Lennon said fishermen should always wear flotation devices when boating, and they should try to become familiar with the currents and the terrain when boating in a new spot.When fishing from the shore or wading, always make sure that someone knows exactly where you are going to be fishing, carry a cellphone and whenever possible, don't fish alone.Nonemergency numbers are:Carbon County: 570-325-9111Monroe County: 570-992-9911Schuylkill County: 570-622-3739Northampton County: 610-759-2200Lehigh County: 610-437-5252