Red flag warning issued for high fire danger today

A red flag warning has been issued for parts of southern Colorado for Wednesday afternoon and evening.

The warning began at 12 p.m., expires at 8 p.m. and includes the following areas:

Most of El Paso County
Fremont County

A red flag warning is issued when warm temperatures, low humidity and gusty winds combine to create high fire danger. A wildfire can start easily, spread quickly and grow out of control rapidly in such conditions.

You’re urged to avoid any activities that could result in a wildfire when a red flag warning is in effect.

Some activities that commonly lead to wildfires and can easily be avoided include:

Throwing cigarettes from car windows
Slash pile or trash burning where normally allowed
Using fireworks where normally allowed

Extra precautions should also be taken when cooking outside or building a campfire (where allowed).

If you are unsure about the fire-related rules in your area, call your local fire department.