ALBANY – GNUSA
A statewide burn ban is now in effect due to increased fire risk and continued dry conditions, Governor Kathy Hochul announced on October 2 with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
The ban will be in effect through October 15 and will be revaluated prior to expiration.
“The ongoing nice weather is great for watching fall foliage or gathering with friends, but it also presents a higher risk for fires that put homes, businesses and our brave first responders at risk”, Governor Hochul said. “Many regions are already in a drought watch or warning due to the dry conditions, and with the fire risk rising in some parts of the state, it is important to keep everyone safe by implementing this temporary burn ban”.
The statewide burn ban now in effect prohibits the starting of outdoor fires for purposes of brush and debris disposal, as well as all uncontained fires, including campfires, and open fires used for cooking. Backyard fire pits and contained campfires less than three feet in height and four feet in length, width or diameter are allowed, as are small, contained cooking fires.
Burning garbage or leaves is already prohibited year-round in New York State and several municipalities have burn bans currently in effect.
“New York State is fortunate to have some of the most qualified wildland firefighters in the country protecting our forests and communities. New Yorkers can help keep them and our resources safe by working to prevent fires in the first place”, said NYS Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton.
“We fully support Governor Hochul’s decision to ban outdoor fires until conditions return to safer levels and continue to encourage New Yorkers to help conserve water so that we have an abundant supply for firefighting and other essential uses”, she added.
