Pay attention to fire this summer

Temperatures are starting to creep up as spring makes way for summer and plants that were once green and lush are starting to turn a shade of tan.

That means that fire season is upon us. Not that ignition sources were looking at the calendar before lighting up the countryside.

With several fires in western Nevada over the past few months, it seems worth noting that it's not going to be any easier to keep fires under control as the summer continues.

Add to that a very dry winter, which means moisture levels in vegetation are going to be lower than they've been in three years.

According to the East Fork Fire District morning report, the chance of ignition is up to 87 percent and has been climbing steadily.

With odds like those, it's a good idea to keep a close watch on flame sources whether you're camping, barbecuing or working outdoors.

Tinder dry cheat grass can be ignited by a bullet, a piece of glass, sparks from welding or grinding, or just a hot tailpipe.

And, with a hot afternoon breeze blowing, a small fire can grow into a very large one in a very short time.

That means paying attention to what you're doing and where you're doing it.

Summer is a great time for people to go outside and enjoy themselves. But when fire's involved, a good time can turn to tragedy with just a moment's inattention.