Ahead of Memorial Day, officials in Mass. warn against fires, serious burns [Video]

As Memorial Day, the unofficial start of the summer, looms ahead, officials in Massachusetts are encouraging residents to take proper fire safety measures, warning against blazes and serious burns.

State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine and Foxborough Fire Chief Michael Kelleher, president of the Fire Chiefs Association of Massachusetts, are reminding residents to practice fire safety this season leading up to the Memorial Day holiday Monday.

“Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer, and we want to remind everyone to play it safe as they enjoy the warm weather,” Davine said. “Don’t let a fire or serious burn ruin your summer.”

Fire officials offered the following safety tips on brush and wildland, gasoline, grilling and smoking.

Brush and Wildland Fire Safety

“Almost all outdoor fires are caused by human activity,” officials noted in a statement. “In the warm, sunny, dry weather expected this weekend these fires will spread to dangerous sizes quickly and require …