When we skip ahead an hour at 2 a.m. Sunday, that spring forward on the clocks will not be the only reminder we are moving toward brighter, warmer (Soon? We hope? Please?) weather. Forestry officials across our region are reminding us we have also entered the spring fire ban season.

From March 1 through May 31 in both West Virginia and Ohio, there are prohibitions on outdoor burning. Ohio’s Division of Forestry says the ban is between the hours of 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. In West Virginia, the restriction is between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. No, not even in a proper burn barrel.

There are other rules to follow, even once the ban is lifted each day. In Ohio, fires must be more than 1,000 feet from a neighbor’s inhabited building. There is no burning allowed when there is an air pollution alert, warning or emergency; and fire/smoke must not obscure visibility on roads, railways or airfields. Waste generated off premises cannot be burned. And, there is no burning within city or village limits or other restricted areas.

Of course, fires should be attended at all times, and those attending it should have a means to put it out immediately available. In fact, fires must be completely extinguished before they are left unattended. West Virginia adds that a 10-foot cleared safety strip should be made around debris to be burned.

Use common sense — whether you’ve just got a little backyard bonfire going or you’re clearing a massive amount of leaves, brush and yard clippings — if conditions are dry, windy or otherwise conducive to fires spreading quickly, wait.

There are penalties for violating these rules no matter where you are. But an even more important reason to follow them is that they reduce the risk of damage to our beautiful forests AND other people’s property. Further, they help keep safe those who bravely fight wildfires here. We know all too well that it can be a dangerous, even deadly, job.

As signs of an approaching spring pop up everywhere, keep firefighters safe, keep yours and your neighbors’ property safe, and keep our forests and parks safer. It’s simple: Follow the rules.