State Forester issues fire threat warning for Fourth of July weekend

Nevada's State Forester Pete Anderson issued a warning to be careful with fire during the Fourth of July weekend.

"After several years of drought and below average snow packs, our state has experienced one of the wettest spring seasons," he said. "The welcomed moisture has significantly benefited our Great Basin vegetation. Many areas are experiencing wildflower blooms that are truly beautiful and unique. As many Nevadans know, this green landscape will quickly dry out in the next few weeks and become fuel for wildfires."

"The potential for the catastrophic loss of life and property is very real. Summer after summer our interagency firefighters, paid and volunteer, have exhibited professionalism and courage as they have repeatedly saved lives, homes, and property. From ranch property to subdivision homes, heroic stands against wildfires have been made throughout our state. This Fourth of July visit your local fire station and please thank your firefighters for the outstanding work they all do.

"As we celebrate this Fourth of July and enjoy the long weekend, please be aware of the vegetation around your gathering, camp site or barbeque. Your actions have the real potential for igniting a wildfire. Please adhere to fire restrictions and use caution when using equipment, traveling the back country and cooking. Human caused wildfires continue to increase across our country. While we cannot control lightening caused wildfires, we can prevent human ignitions."