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The state evaluates the level of fire danger every day, with class five being "extreme danger" or a "red flag warning." Right now, the area is at high risk at a class four level.
Lack of rain, below average rainfall in general, high temperatures and very low relative humidity contribute to the risk factor, said Northborough Fire Chief David Durgin.
"The sun can shine directly on the forest floor drying flues as the leaves are not yet out to shield them from the suns drying rays," said Durgin. "The only item keeping us out of extreme danger is a lack of wind. There has been no significant rain since Saturday, April 20."
Wednesday, May 1, marked the last day of open burning season.
"We would ask everyone to be careful outdoors with any type of fire or smoking materials," said Durgin.
Durgin said while there has not been a big increase in open fires so far this season, there have been some mulch fires.
"Other towns in the area are having fires," he added. "The biggest I know of locally was in Hopkinton last Sunday. Northborough sent a cover company and along with Milford Fire we extinguished a car fire that extended to the woods on the southbound side of 495."
To prevent the risk of fire, Durgin recommends cleaning leaves from roof gutters and away from the house and out buildings. Pine needles, too, should be removed from the rooftops. Brush and forest debris should be kept far from the house
Like I said Open Air Burning ends today May 1. Recommend cleaning leaves from roof gutters and away from the house and out buildings. Remove pine needles from roofs as well. Keep brush and forest debris away from the house and out buildings. Do not pile or store combustible items under decks.
"Create a safe area or defensive zone for firefighters to work in between structures and the forest ,and to keep an encroaching fire away from property," he said.
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