A grass fire in Downey area on Monday afternoon has the Okotoks Fire Department reminding residents to stay vigilant as the Spring dry season continues.

The small fire was put out quickly after fire crews and RCMP arrived, but the fire department says this is not the first grass fire they have responded to this year.

Pat MacIsaac, Deputy Fire Chief with the Town, says they aren't sure what caused the fire Monday afternoon.

"Some of the information we had was potentially some kids playing in the area. Whether it was intentionally set, or an accident, we're unsure. But it's certainly a hazardous time of year for fires," MacIsaac said.

MacIsaac did give a number of tips to help prevent grass fires. He advises smokers to be well aware of their discarded smoking materials, calling them the "main culprit" of most grass fires.

He also warned ATV riders to keep their muffler areas clean, and to stay out of areas with an abudnace of dry grass.

The best way residents can prevent grass fires is to keep their yards well maintained.

"Be cognizant of the areas around your home, particularly the areas close to your house. Make sure that's there's not an accumulation of combustibles, (like) grass. Keep your grass cut short. Good housekeeping in your yard will reduce the risk of your yard becoming involved in a fire," MacIsaac said.

MacIsaac said the dry weather we're experiencing increases the likelihood of grass fires this year.

Questions, comments, or story ideas? Email us at news@okotoksonline.com