NM foresters warn of winter fire danger

SANTA FE (AP) - State Forester Butch Blazer is cautioning New Mexicans about fire danger in parts of the state because of mild conditions and less-than-abundant moisture.

Fine grassy fuels and brush in southern and southeastern New Mexico are dry, leaving them susceptible to fire.

Blazer says a few fires already have broken out around Carlsbad and Ruidoso.

The state Forestry Division is asking people to be extra cautious with outdoor fires.

Some 60 fires have been reported on state and private land in New Mexico since Sept. 1, burning about 3,230 acres.

Blazer says most of the fires were small and were quickly put out, but he says they could easily have spread and threatened homes or communities.