FLAGSTAFF, Arizona — Wildfires north of Flagstaff were caused by someone burning grass clippings. Coconino National Forest Officials said the man is now facing charges of reckless arson and violating the fire ban.

A 156-acre flat fire north of the San Francisco Peaks and 7.5 miles west of Route 89 ignited on July 10 and was 32% extinguished as of Friday afternoon.

Authorities said the man was burning grass clippings at the crematorium when the wind caused the fire to go out of control and spread rapidly.

The man was arrested by the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office on suspicion of reckless arson and violating the county fire ban. His identity has not been made public.

Officials said one Hotshot crew, one Hand crew, one engine, one bulldozer and one water tanker were fighting the fire.

Arizona wildfires

Follow the latest coverage of the 2022 Arizona wildfire season with Current Coverage on the 12News YouTube channel.

Wildfire Go Kit:

Residents of wildfire-prone areas are being asked to bring emergency kits when evacuating their homes, especially as widespread fire activity has begun to be detected early across Arizona.

An emergency supply kit should be ready long before a wildfire or other disaster strikes. Keep it in an easily accessible place so that you can take it with you when you evacuate.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that residents near a disaster store emergency supplies in plastic bathtubs, small suitcases, trash cans, backpacks, or other containers.

The NFPA said residents should have essentials such as three gallons of water per person and three days’ worth of ready-to-eat meals. First aid kits, prescription drugs, contact lenses, and over-the-counter medications should also be considered.

Copies of important family documents, such as insurance policies, identification documents, bank account records, and emergency contact numbers, should also be taken and placed in a waterproof, portable container in the kit, the NFPA said.

The association lists other items that may come in handy during a disaster, including:

• Sleeping bags or warm blankets for each person

• Battery-operated or hand-cranked radio and NOAA weather radio for up-to-date information

• A dust mask or cotton t-shirt to filter the air

• matches in a waterproof container

• Store a complete change of clothes, including long pants, long-sleeved shirts and sturdy shoes, in a waterproof container

• signal flare

You can find the entire NFPA checklist for supplies. here.