Wildfire Hazards High, Caution Advised

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- State forestry officials are warning campers to be cautious about burning outdoors because of high grass, dry leaves and wind.<br/><br/>State Forester John Burwell says abundant rains

Saturday, November 17th 2007, 2:47 pm

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- State forestry officials are warning campers to be cautious about burning outdoors because of high grass, dry leaves and wind.

State Forester John Burwell says abundant rains have caused excessive plant growth this year, but tall grasses and drying leaves are quickly becoming a fire hazard.

Most of the state has experienced its first freeze and plant life that thrived during summer is starting to go dormant, he said.

Although current conditions aren't nearly as conducive to wildfire as they were during 2005, officials say high grasses could still pose a danger.

When dry and windy conditions increase the fire danger, extreme caution is advised when using fire outdoors, such as burning brush piles or having a campfire.