With the start of summer just around the corner this weekend, the Missouri Department of Conservation is reminding you to celebrate safely this year. KRPS’s Fred Fletcher-Fierro has more.

This summer could be especially busy considering that a lot of us are making up for lost time due to the pandemic. The Missouri Department of Conservation is reminding residents to be careful and safe when it comes to fires. Do not light fireworks near dry grass and have either an approved fire extinguisher or an available water source to douse sparks or flames. Also, re-consider outdoor burning or making a campfire when conditions are especially dry or windy. And never use gasoline, kerosene, or other flammable liquid to start a fire. While also keep campfires small and controllable.

Also, wildfires can start when dry fuel, such as grass, comes in contact with your car’s catalytic converters. So think twice before driving into and across a grassy field and never park over tall, dry grass or piles of leaves that can touch the underside of a vehicle. Finally, Call 911 at the first sign of a fire getting out of control.