U.S. Army Hawaii personnel will conduct a controlled burning of about 1,200 acres within the Schofield Barracks training range starting as a preventive measure against wildfires.

The annual "prescribed burn" will begin Monday and last about one week, according to Army officials.

"Safety is our No. 1 priority," said Fire Division Chief Scotty Freeman of the Army’s Directorate of Emergency Services. "Prescribed burns are an important tool in preventing wildfires and protecting our communities, especially as the dry summer months approach."

Army personnel spent the last six months removing brush around existing range firebreaks and improving roads in the area to provide better access for firefighters and emergency personnel.

The planned burn will remove guinea grass and other flammable vegetation that might otherwise provide fuel for wildfires.

The operations will take place during the day, and Army firefighters will remain on scene each night to monitor the area.