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Experts ramp up for busy wildfire season, share prevention tips with Arizonans

Experts said the Mogollon Rim, dry lower deserts and hot and windy conditions are setting the stage for a more active than normal fire season.

FOUNTAIN HILLS, Ariz. — Experts are warning Arizonans about the potential of a very active wildfire season. We’ve already seen blazes sparking across our state. 

The latest, occurring around noon Monday, near Fountain Hills. Now, wildfire prevention teams are asking everyone to pitch in and do what they can to prevent wildfires. 

In the last month, wildfires have popped up in Cochise, Pima and Pinal counties. Experts said the Mogollon Rim, dry lower deserts and hot and windy conditions are setting the stage for a more active than normal fire season. 

The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management said humans start about 70 to 85 percent of annual fires and prevention is key.

The U.S. Department of the Interior shared tips for wildfire prevention.

Some of those are checking weather and drought conditions, building campfires (if allowed) in an open location and far from flammables, dousing the campfire until it’s cold, keeping vehicles off of dry grass, and regularly maintaining your equipment and vehicle.

Anyone taking off on road trips this summer should also check their tires, bearings and axles on trailers. That's to make sure nothing is dragging which could easily spark a blaze from the side of the road.

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