The Quinte West Fire Department is putting out a reminder about the risks of open air burning, with some property owners getting set to start their spring yard cleanups.
Chief John Whelan says most municipalities have burning policies in place, where residents are required to get a permit, so the fire department knows where open air burns are happening.
Whelan says the problem is, even with a permit, wind conditions and extremely dry surroundings can cause small fires to spread quickly and that can even result in buildings burning up, or people being injured.
Anyone who decides to conduct an open air burn should contact their municipal office about a burn permit and make sure to follow all fire-related safety precautions.
