Farmers and ranchers are struggling with the drought in more ways than one.

These hot dry conditions are a perfect breeding ground for grass fires, which can quickly spiral out of control if not dealt with immediately.

Cathie Bassett, Public Education Officer at the Moose Jaw Fire Department, says there are several ways to avoid sparks flying and keeping farm equipment in top shape is one of them. 

"You have to make sure there are no problems with your equipment, oil them, make sure everything is running properly. Just be careful," says Bassett.

Well inspected and working equipment is not the only preventative measure Bassett suggests.

"Remove combustible material near your home, keep lawns well-watered and mowed, and if you have smaller trees that reach the treetops of the larger trees it's just like a fire latter," says Bassett.

She also says cleaning up fallen branches is very important as those can catch fire quickly. 

Bassett says if you do come across a grass fire, calling 911 is the absolute first step.

"Try to be as accurate with your location as possible, it saves us so much time if we are headed in the right direction. Definitely get us there as soon as possible, we need to be there as quickly as we can," says Bassett.

She mentions this is definitely not the time to be setting off fireworks and right now is the time to avoid fires of all kinds.