With the temperature expected to reach the high 90s over the weekend and next week and the transition of the fire danger rating moving to the "moderate" level today, it didn't take long to see another fire in the region.

A grass fire in Prosser near state Route 221 broke out early this afternoon after reports from on-scene personnel indicated that it was started when a bullet spark ignited the hillside while people in the area were target practicing.

Officials, who were keeping drivers from entering the road while the fire was still being fought by firefighters, say that the burn has been mostly contained and the road is scheduled to be reopened to traffic by the end of the day. The recent trend of large-scale wildland fires throughout eastern Washington has seen leaders from local fire departments recommending tips to the public to help prevent more fires.

"Always practice fire safety precautions. Have water available when you're outdoors burning, a shovel, and a garden hose, and make sure you're fifty feet from any combustibles. so dry grass, buildings, outbuildings, wood piles," said Mike Harris, who serves as the Fire Chief for Franklin Fire District 3.

Harris also noted that he recommends drivers avoid dragging chains while driving on the road and be cautious of where they pull off when driving as the heat from the car's underside, as well as metal on rock, can spark a fire.