DEC Contact: Jeff Wernick (518) 402-8000 June 23, 2020
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DEC ISSUES FIRE DANGER WARNINGAbnormally Dry Conditions through Most of Eastern New York |
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New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today urged New Yorkers to practice the utmost safety when burning wood and brush outdoors during recent dry conditions. Although the State's prohibition on residential brush burning ended in May, fire danger still exists. "Dry weather and warming temperatures have elevated the risk of fires statewide, particularly across eastern New York," Commissioner Seggos said. "The last widespread rainfall we saw was more than a full week ago and over the last month, some parts of the state are 90 percent below normal rainfall levels. I encourage New Yorkers to use safety precautions to help prevent wildfire outbreaks.” DEC updates the fire danger map and forecast during fire season on its website and on the NY Fishing, Hunting & Wildlife App (also available on DEC's website). The majority of the state remains at moderate risk, which means outdoor fires can burn briskly and spread rapidly on windy days. Precipitation in eastern New York and western New England over the last 30 days ranged from 0.50 to 3.50 inches, which is 15 to 90 percent below normal. Debris burning and campfires are among the top five causes of wildfires. While fireworks are not a significant cause of wildfires, they are a potential hazard. In most cases, fireworks are also illegal. Campfires with family are great fun, when done safely. Fire safety tips for burning wood or brush:
While camping in the backcountry, New Yorkers are advised to:
Do Not Burn Household Trash
For information on open burning and campfire safety in New York, go to: https://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/58519.html and https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7827.html. |
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