Now that spring has sprung, the Foothills is worried about new safety hazards.

Grass fires are one of the main hazards we face, during this time of year.

On Tuesday afternoon, around 4:24 P.M. The Foothills Fire Department, Heritage Point Station responded to a report of an outside fire.

Foothills Fire Chief Jim Smith says they saw what had caused the blaze when they arrived.

"We got to the place that the fire had started, it was a fire pit that was ignited the day before and put out." Chief Smith says "The high winds ignited the embers still left in the bottom of the fire pit and spread the fire."

High winds can be a huge problem for fire fighters when they're up against a wildfire, in this case Chief Smith says the wind started it, and also caused it move very fast.

"The embers traveled about 150 ft. to get to the dry grass, then the grass took off with the high winds.  We were able to keep it contained in an area that only affected three properties, but it was moving quite fast."

The fire spanned about 2 acres in size, thanks to the efforts of the Foothills Fire Department the fire was extinguished before it damaged any homes or caused any injuries.

Foothills Fire Chief Jim Smith says the moral of this story goes two ways.

"Make sure your camp fires are fully put out, also make sure that if you do see smoke, or if you do see flame, and there isn't anyone around, don't be afraid to phone 911." Chief Smith adds "It's very important to get us out there early so things can't progress into a bad situation."

People must be cautious with outdoor fires and cigarette butts or other burning items this time of year, as grass and plants here in the Foothills are currently very dry.

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