The state is asking residents to be vigilant — especially as deer season approaches, thereby guaranteeing more people spending time in wooded areas — to prevent Pennsylvania from suffering the same fate as several West Coast states.

It’s important to heed this call.

This summer has been especially dry in Pennsylvania, which increases the risk that a small spark in the wrong place can result in a large and fast-growing blaze.

News clips of wildfires burning out of control in California, Washington and Oregon should be great incentives for Pennsylvanians to take proper precautions.

The reasons for those fires are being debated, but most can agree they are a cautionary tale of how quickly wildfires can become gravely dangerous.

State officials have warned that a sustained dry period is continuing at a time when wildfire dangers are at their highest, and drought advisories are widening.

In Pennsylvania, 95 percent of wildfires are caused by people.

With deer and small-game hunting seasons approaching, now is a great time to remind hunters and those out viewing fall foliage — which eventually drops to the ground and dries, increasing the possibility of wildfires — to be careful when smoking or burning anything.

Over the summer, several county municipalities instituted burning bans, which — considering the extended dry spell — was a good idea. Communities at risk of wildfires might consider initiating their own burn ban, while ones with existing bans should extend them. Local fire officials praised the bans, giving examples of yard waste burns that started out small, but quickly spread.

Residents who are thinking of carrying out a burn should visit the state Bureau of Forestry’s website for information on how to do so safely.

State officials suggest that a hose, rake and shovel be on-hand when burning, and that potentially flammable material should be kept 10 feet away.

Those spending time in the woods should smoke away from grassy areas or spots covered with fallen leaves and avoid driving vehicles onto dry grass because exhaust pipes and mufflers can spark fires.

Many state residents look forward to the fall season and spending time outdoors — hunting or checking out the multi-colored leaves — and we encourage them to do so, especially after being cooped up for months due to COVID-19.

Just be careful when doing so, and aware of how one’s actions can affect others.

— NCD