Authorities of the North Little Rock Fire Department alert the public to the risk of fire in dry heat

North Little Rock, Arkansas – The North Little Rock Fire Department reports that the combination of high temperatures and dry weather makes for an ideal storm for heightened fire danger.

According to municipal assistant fire marshal Gary Williams, as summer temperatures rise, personnel are having to work longer hours and are responding to more grass fires due to the combination of heat and dry weather.

“Our guys are very busy over here on the north side of the river in certain areas of the city,” Williams remarked. “Yesterday, on Wednesday, there were multiple grass fires followed by a structure fire.”

Williams stated even tiny objects could start grass fires because of how dry the weather is.
Williams clarified, “Someone could be mowing and hit a rock or metal that could cause a spark.” “It will burn faster the drier it is.”

Williams reported that numerous grass and brush fires, including one close to Burns Park, have occurred this week.

Burns Park Golf Course director of golf Steve Ralston expressed his unsurprisement at the nearby fire.

Williams remarked, “I can see it taking off in a heartbeat if people throw a cigarette or something out. Things are so dry.”

According to Ralston, their employees are making every effort to maintain the grass’s maximum greenness.

“This is the driest Burns Park has been in a long time.” “We’re watering as much as we ever have during the summer right now,” continues Ralston.

Williams advised everyone to exercise caution in the city to avoid starting any fires.