DNR warns of increased fire danger in region

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is cautioning residents of east-central Minnesota that fire danger is predicted to increase over the next few days.

As fall continues, dry vegetation and falling leaves increase, which help fuel wildfires.

Information officer Philip Weyhe said the DNR has responded to over 20 fires during the last week.

"Wildfires can start and spread quickly, especially in dry, windy conditions," Weyhe said in an email.

According to DNR wildfire prevention specialist Karen Harrison, those blazes include three wildfires in Isanti County, totaling 8.32 acres; a 150-acre wildfire in Mille Lacs County; and a 0.25-acre wildfire in Chisago County.

The DNR is reminding residents to check burn piles and ash removed from wood stoves or heaters for lingering heat.