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Officials: Drought Making N.H. Wildfires Tougher To Fight

New Hampshire forestry and fire officials say it's been more difficult fighting wildfires because of drought conditions, and they urge residents to be vigilant regarding an increasing threat of wildfires.

They say with conditions ranging from abnormally dry to extreme in southern New Hampshire, this fire season will likely be more challenging and potentially more dangerous than normal.

Steven Sherman, chief of the state's Forest Protection Bureau, says the potential for large wildfires is real as forest fuels continue to dry and new fuels are added with falling leaves.

Authorities say a spark from any type of power equipment can spark a wildfire. One was caused recently in Coos County in conjunction with a timber harvest. A trailer safety chain sparked after it came into contact with a rock.

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