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COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. -- The higher than average amounts of rainfall in southern Colorado has made things look a lot greener.

But looks can be deceiving.

"It can contribute to the spread of a wildfire," Dawn Sanches, Fire Prevention Technician for the U.S. Forest Service, said.

Experts said rain has helped sprout new vegetation, including grasses that can spread fire.

"That growing grass, when it does dry out this winter or this fall," Sanchez said, "it can cause high fire danger."

Sanchez said the danger can be higher in urban forests, which is why city crews help clear out combustible fuels in the area.

"With the help of the fire department and their mitigation group," Paul Smith, City Forester for the City of Colorado Springs, said, "we do joint projects where we go in and try to reduce those fuels in open space areas."

Foresters clear vegetation about every 3-5 years. However, Smith said everyone needs to help with fire mitigation.

"Residents need to mow their grasses, make sure shrubs are pruned back and that trees are raised up and their crowns are seperated," he said.

So don't let the rain fool you. There is still a high risk for fires in the region.

"The rain is always good, but it is always good to be cautious," Smith said.

Fire officials said the new vegetation could dry out as early as next month.