A series of wildfires 40 miles northwest of Phoenix over the past month were human-caused, sparking concern for this upcoming wildfire season. 

Residents in the Wickenburg and Wittmann area used to be able to put out fires on their own with water. But according to Tiffany Davila, spokeswoman for the Department of Forestry and Fire Management, heavy rains have brought a grass crop to the Sonoran Desert, posing new risks.

“Fires are starting more quicker and spreading rapidly out in that area. So we're just urging the public in that area just to use caution. Just be extra careful. if they're conducting their daily activities.”

Davila said the department is sending a fire engine to patrol the area.

“Most of the fires we're seeing out there starting on the weekend, so if a fire were to start we’ll have an engine present, an engine close by.”

Davila said the engine crew will be educating and answering questions about fire prevention.