Spring fire season drawing closer

Foresters are warning area residents to be careful with fire as the "spring fire season" draws closer. The number one cause of such fires is debris burning.

"Although it is difficult to picture a dry, windy with snow still on the ground and a several days of rainfall, we must be ready," said District Forester from the Emporium office.

Elk State Forest District is gearing up for the possibility of wildfires. Six vehicles in the local district are outfitted with slip-on units which contain approximately 150 gallons of water, hose reels, rakes, shovels, Indian cans, and other fire fighting equipment.

Most other vehicles also have an assortment of tools and supplies so employees can respond quickly. Portable radios are checked and a fire briefing is completed each spring. In addition, all employees receive training.

State employees work with staffers and volunteers from fire companies, 911 call centers, emergency management, other state agencies and cooperators.

"Here among the small communities that comprise this part of the Pennsylvania Wilds, we rely heavily on one another for support and have always found assistance in any emergency," Wambaugh said.

Anyone working outside with fire should have a water bucket, hose, rake and shovel handy.

"Never leave the fire unattended," Wambaugh advised. "Never burn on dry, windy days. Also, as an alternative to burning, consider composting your yard waste."