CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – There is a Red Flag Warning for all of western Massachusetts Wednesday for the high risk of Brush Fires.

A Red Flag Warning is issued when “critical fire weather conditions” are either occurring now or will occur shortly. Any fires that start under these conditions could spread rapidly, and become difficult to put out.

The warning is in effect state-wide through 7:00 this evening. Local and state fire officials are urging the public to use caution when dealing with necessary fire, or anything hot to the touch while outdoors on Wednesday.

The smallest spark can start a major wildfire under these conditions. Caution is also advised indoors, despite the possibility of climate control, once a fire gets going, it can be hard to control on days like this. So, properly dispose of all smoking materials on Wednesday.

Wind Gusts

Persistent dry conditions combined with sustained winds of 10-20 MPH and gusts of up to 30 MPH could make it easier for fires to spread Wednesday.

If you’re enjoying the sun from behind the grill, take extra care, and make sure to fully extinguish the fire using cold water when you are done.