ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — During this time of the year, we sometimes see dry and breezy conditions across parts of Western New York. While these conditions are great for outdoor activities, they also, unfortunately, are high fire danger conditions.  “That’s something that we’re not used to hearing in this area. Basically, fire danger ratings let us know that there’s a higher potential for fires to start and spread in the area,” says Jackie Sierra, who is the Public Information Officer for the Rochester Fire Department. Specific weather conditions, such as dry and breezy days, are essential for triggering high fire danger warnings. However, that’s not all.  “First is understanding why these things are happening, right? That can be low humidity. It can be a lot of dead fuels such as the leaves we have on the ground right now,” Sierra says. The most effective way to ensure your safety during these conditions is to be prepared for the possibility of a fire igniting and spreading. “What they can do to help is stay away from doing campfires if at all possible. If they are going to have campfires or bonfires, have an extinguisher or hose line in place, a garden hose. Not just in places, but ready to use right? They can also make sure that the bonfires are away from any structures or any piles of leaves and brush,” says Sierra. If you have any doubts about whether a fire has been fully extinguished, your safest option is to call 911. “Always call 911. Even if they try to extinguish the fire and they want to make sure it’s completely out, they can call us and we’ll go on scene and take care of the rest,” Sierra says.   Click here to stay up to date with the latest fire danger map.