According to officials, there is a high risk of wildfires at this time of year, and they warn to be aware of the dangers.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly a quarter of fires handled by local departments are brush, grass and forest fires.

Some areas have burning bans or require permits to burn. Officials say making sure you cover those legal bases is the first step before burning.

City of Altoona Fire Inspector Justin Smithmyer says when burning materials like brush or leaves, make sure you are always present during the fire and always have something to put it out if necessary. He says that can include a fire extinguisher, water, dirt or sand.

“At this time of year, with leaf fall, the leaves dry out very quickly, there’s a big danger of ground fires,” Smithmyer says. “That can come from discarded cigarettes, material smoke or things of that nature.”

Smithmyer says keeping the area tidy can also help prevent fires.

“It’s not just about watching when you burn to get rid of things like leaves and brush, but also about keeping the house tidy,” says Smithmyer. “Especially when people can end up throwing cigarettes and things in the streets, along hallways, things like that, making sure everything is clean and kept clean will help prevent them from growing.”

Smithmyer adds that he won’t hesitate to call 911 if the fire appears to spread.