“After our abnormally dry winter, conditions are drying out quickly,” said Eric Ewing, a manager at the Susanville Interagency Fire Center.“We have a tall crop of grass in many areas, and that can feed a wildfire.People need to be extremely careful when camping, driving in the back country and cutting firewood.”

Ewing stressed it is illegal to possess or use fireworks — including those sold at fireworks stands — in national forests, national parks and on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management.

County and city governments have various regulations regarding fireworks, and holiday revelers should be familiar with local laws before purchasing or using the devices.

Those planning camping trips should also follow these fire safety tips:

•Keep campfires small and completely extinguish them before leaving camp.The best method is to douse the fire with water, stir the ashes and douse again, making sure all ashes are cold to the touch.

•Charcoal should be soaked in water after use.

•Smokers should light up only in areas cleared of all flammable debris.Cigarette butts should never be thrown from vehicle windows.

Those exploring the forests and backcountry in vehicles must stay on established roads and trails and avoid driving on dry brush and grass that could be ignited by hot exhaust systems.Firewood cutters should operate chainsaws only in the cool morning hours and keep a shovel and fire extinguisher nearby.Chainsaws must be equipped with spark arresters.

Information on current fire dangers is available from any office of the Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management or Calfire.Local fire departments also have information on fire dangers and restrictions, and local fireworks regulations.