Be cautious in tinder-dry woods

While it’s true that rain and cooler temperatures helped keep wildfires from spreading this fire season, and true also that the number of wildfires on public and private lands was lower than some years, the weather turned hot in late summer and early fall.

This happened in concert with the opening of hunting seasons, so great numbers of people are tramping through the forests now.

Common-sense rules apply. They include obeying local laws and restrictions regarding vehicles, equipment and campfires; keeping flammable objects away from fire; being careful with lanterns, campfires and charcoal briquettes; drowning all fires; and carefully extinguishing smoking materials.

At this time of year, wildfires are more likely to be caused by humans than by lightning. A single careless act could cause a disaster.

It’s been a great summer and a beautiful fall, with fire doing less-than-expected damage to our forests. Here’s hoping it stays that way.

Keep those tips coming

We’re pleased that a lot of subscribers to The Observer choose to tip their carriers. Whether your carrier is a youth carrier or a motor route driver, it’s good to recognize good work.

We do ask, though, that people who choose to include a tip along with their payment for subscriptions please specify in a note or on the memo portion of the check how much is intended as a tip. If a tip is not specified, the entire amount is posted toward the subscription.

Please, continue to recognize your carrier. These people endure lots of crazy weather conditions over the course of a year to get your paper to you. But also remember to let us know when a certain amount is supposed to be directed to the carrier. Thank you.