As the leaves begin to change and the temperatures cool off, there's no doubt it's one of the best times to hit the state parks. But weeks without rain and a lot more wind, things can change quick.
"Fire is a dangerous thing and as dry as it is, things can get out of hand," Jason Baumann said.
Park manager Jason Baumann is making sure campers are extra careful when they visit the Big Sioux Recreation Area. Knowing campfires are often times the main attraction, Jason says he's just making sure visitors know the dangers.
"I remind them how dry it is, tell them to keep their fires small, keep an eye on it. Put it out before you go to bed. Unattended fires wouldn't be good this time of year," Baumann said. "Wind plays a huge part of it, the windier it is the faster things dry out the surrounded area. It's also important for the fires because embers can go into the air, wind can carry it and start a fire that's not even around you."
If you're headed out to enjoy the scenery this weekend, he says don't let the risk put a damper on your trip.
"Have a fire, have a good time but be responsible, and keep fires on the small side," Baumann said.
October weekends are some of the busiest of the season for state park goers.
