AUGUSTA – The Maine Department of Conservation is asking residents to be extra careful with fire. Nearly half of all wildfires in Maine occur during April and May, when property owners often burn debris such as grass, brush and blueberry barrens. After the winter, the state is left with a great deal of dead, highly combustible vegetation.

The danger of fire can rise to high or very high in the afternoon when temperatures and wind increase. Burning during the early evening hours is recommended.

Open burning permits are available at no cost and can be obtained from your town fire warden or department, or in an unorganized area, from any Maine Forest Service ranger.

Failure to obtain a permit could result in a fine and suppression costs should the fire escape. Liability for damage to neighboring properties is unlimited.

Once an open permit has been granted, it’s important that a property owner have ample manpower, water and hand tools on site to keep the fire under constant control.