German weather authorities have issued a warning for moderate forest fire risk in the Kaiserslautern area. (Scott McGonigal/U.S. Army)

A stretch of hot, dry weather has pushed the forest fire danger in the Kaiserslautern area to a moderate level, according to the German Meteorological Service.

Residents are urged to be cautious with fire pits, cigarettes and other ignition sources, especially in and near forested areas. Smoking is banned in forests year-round under German law, and open flames must be kept at least 328 feet from the forest’s edge.

Fires may be lit only in designated pits and must be fully extinguished. Drivers should also avoid parking on dry grass, as hot car parts can spark fires.

The German Meteorological Service updates its forest fire risk map daily. It can be found here.