WISCONSIN — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources said the state will experience increased fire danger this week, with gusty winds and minimal chances for precipitation.

The DNR urged Wisconsinites to hold off on burning debris.

It said fire danger will continue until the state gets “significant rainfall.” You can check fire danger in your area, here.

Burning brush and leaf piles are the most common cause of wildfires at this time of year, though wildfires can happen any time of the year when the ground isn’t snow-covered.

Wildfires can also occur from recreational equipment, campfires and hot ashes from fireplaces.

Embers from fires can remain hot for days or even weeks, according to the DNR. It said to either empty ashes into a metal container that has a tight-fitting lid or put them in the bare soil. Afterwards, the DNR said you should drown the ashes in water and stir until those embers are cold.

In preparation for fall, the DNR said fire officials have begun to staff some fire equipment in the northern half of the state.

To avoid starting a wildfire, the DNR said it recommends avoiding debris burning until there is snow covering the ground.