With the recent brush fires popping up across New York State, just a reminder that the New York state-wide brush burning ban is in effect until Saturday, May 14th.

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The US National Weather Service today issued a special weather statement in Western New York, stating that there is an elevated risk of wildfire spread today.  The falling humidity, combined with high winds moving into the area, and a nearly cloudless day are all factors that could lead to the spread of wildfires across Western and North Central New York over the next few days.

New York State first enacted its state-wide spring burn ban in 2009.  Open burning is the single greatest cause of wildfires in NYS. Since the state started the annual spring burn ban,  the number of wildfires across New York has decreased by more than 40%.

Commissioner Seggos of the DEC said:

Starting March 16 and ending May 14, New York State prohibits residential brush burning to protect our communities and our natural resources. Since 2009, New York's burn ban has reduced the number of wildfires in our communities and we're looking forward to continuing that trend in 2022.

There are some exceptions to the burn ban such as small backyard fire pits and campfires.  Small cooking fires are also allowed, but keep in mind that only charcoal or dry, clean, untreated, or unpainted wood can be burned.

With the nice weather this week, if you find yourself wanting to sit by the fire at night, remember that you should never leave a fire unattended, and be sure to fully extinguish them when you are done.

You can get more info on fire safety here at the FIREWISE New York webpage.

To report a wildfire, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264).

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