COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Division of Forestry has issued a fire danger statement for southeast Ohio, warning that the wildfire danger is high today due to very dry conditions expected this afternoon.

In light of the high fire danger, open burning of any type is considered extremely dangerous at this time. Officials are urging residents to be very careful of heat and sparks while operating any equipment or smoking in wildland areas.

Ohio state law also prohibits burning from 6 AM to 6 PM. Anyone found violating the law could face fines or other penalties.

Officials are reminding residents to take necessary precautions to prevent wildfires, such as properly extinguishing cigarettes and not leaving fires unattended.