MASSACHUSETTS - The Forest Fire Lookout Association is concerned about this most recent round of dry, windy weather. During Red Flag Warnings, like Tuesday, they work with the state's Department of Conservation and Recreation.

"We can liaise with them and work with them to spread the word and help make sure people are safe," said Jack Kelley, the Southern New England Chapter director for the FFLA.

What You Need To Know

  • A red flag warning was instituted across the state by the National Weather Service

  • Fire Departments in central Massachusetts were on high alert

  • Douglas Fire Department, who has already battled a 10.5 acre brush fire this year, said having a large state forest creates more challenges come the drier weather

  • Out in West Brookfield, the fire chief said availability of fire hydrants can be an obstacle when battling brush fires

The weather also put the Douglas Fire Department on alert.

"The crew came in 7 a.m. this morning and first thing they did was go and check all of our brush equipment, make sure we're all up to snuff, ready to go," said Acting Fire Chief John Furno.

Vehicles are filled with water pumps, chainsaws and thousands of feet of hoses, but it's nothing new for firefighters in town. The department battled a more than 10-acre brush fire last month.

Furno said being surrounded by wooded area keeps them busy on days like these.

"We have a more than 5,000 acre state forest that we maintain for the fire watch and public safety," said Furno. "That's a huge liability for us. We have to be ready at a moments notice."

It's a similar story in West Brookfield.

"With the relative humidity being down around 17%, that in itself with the warm temperatures is a recipe for large brush fires," said Fire Chief Rich Lapierre.

Lapierre said one of they're biggest obstacles is getting water on brush fires.

"This community only essentially has 20% of fire hydrants," Lapierre said. "So we essentially have to bring all our water to fires that they may have on their properties."

But with conditions like Tuesday, staffing can also be a challenge.

"They're on a call now on the ambulance," said Furno. "So that leaves two in the station, myself and the assistant chief, to respond until we can get some call guys back in. And if we have to, we go to mutual aid."

So, they're asking residents to be vigilant.

"Ideally, just don't burn anything on a really high fire danger day," said.

Lapierre said the West Brookfield department will be on alert until there's substantial rain in the area.