By Aubrey Davis

UNDATED (NewsDakota.com) – With the warmer weather, many North Dakotans are excited to get outside and start taking care of their lawns.

However, with the high fire danger that North Dakota is currently experiencing, lawn care can start a wildfire and homeowners should be extra cautious during this time. Before deciding to do lawn care, it is important to check the Fire Danger Rating map that is located on the NDResponse website at https://ndresponse.gov/burn-ban-restrictions-fire-danger-maps to see if fire danger is high in your area.

This map is produced and updated daily. If fire danger is high, it is a good idea to delay lawncare to another day.

Lawnmowers are meant to mow lawns, not dry grass. Sparks from lawnmowers and power equipment start wildfires. Take extra precaution on hot, dry days and check your equipment regularly. If possible, mow before 10a.m. and delay lawn work on days that are excessively windy or dry because metal lawnmower blades striking rocks can cause sparks and start fires. Keep the exhaust system, spark arresters and engine in proper working order and free of carbon buildup.

Use the recommended grade of fuel and don’t fill to the point of overflowing. When doing any yardwork or work outdoors with mechanical equipment, keep a shovel, water source, or fire extinguisher handy.

Today is Earth Day. Celebrate Earth Day by helping to prevent unwanted, human-caused wildfires by taking extra precautions during North Dakota’s wildfire season.