By Ian Nikkel, FOX23.com News Staff
As of Monday morning, 46 of Oklahoma’s 77 counties are under burn bans.
While much of Green Country is not currently under a burn ban, fire officials say dry conditions, low humidity, and wind can still allow a small spark to quickly become a dangerous grass fire.
Bartlesville Fire Department Battalion Chief Edwin Brown said people should stay aware of their surroundings and take precautions before working outdoors.
That includes clearing dry leaves and grass from work areas, keeping water or a fire extinguisher nearby, and avoiding any activity that could create a spark.
Brown said drivers should also be cautious when traveling or parking in tall, dry grass. A hot catalytic converter can ignite vegetation without the driver realizing it.
“You stop to look at something for two minutes—your catalytic converter may start it smoldering—and you drive off and not even know about it,” Brown said. “Ten minutes later, the pasture’s on fire.”
Brown said people should avoid mowing or using equipment that can produce sparks during the hottest and driest part of the day. If mowing cannot wait, he recommends doing it early in the morning, when temperatures are cooler and humidity is higher.
He also encouraged property owners to keep tree limbs away from power lines and contact their electric company if they spot a potential hazard.
Fire officials say the goal is to prevent fires before they start, especially as conditions remain favorable for rapid fire spread.
