Now that Marengo County is under a burn alert, it should be plainly obvious that local conditions have been largely dry for approximately a month.
This means that something as simple as setting a small limb and rubbish fire could quickly spread out of control.
It is always wise to check with your local fire departments before setting such a fire and make sure that conditions will allow you to do so safely.
As long as the order is in place, prescribed burns will be put on hold and residential burns should follow suit. When in doubt, please contact the Forestry Association or any member of your local fire department.