New York State Under Elevated Fire Risk

The warmer drier weather in New York could be an issue when it comes to wildfires across the state.

This week, we are not expecting much relief in terms of rain until this weekend which means that the potential of fires and wildfires is elevated this week.

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The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has issued a "High Risk" of fire across the state.

A "High" risk of fire means that all dead fuels ignite readily and fires start easily from most causes. Unattended brush and campfires are likely to escape. Fires spread rapidly and short-distance spotting is common.

There are some things you can do to help prevent fires from spreading.

The annual New York burn ban is also in effect as of yesterday. The burn ban prohibits open fires except for these incidents:

• Campfires or other outdoor fires less than 3 feet in height and 4 feet in length, width or diameter.
• Small cooking fires.
• Ceremonial or celebratory bonfires are allowed. Disposal of flags or religious items in a small-sized fire is allowed, if it is not otherwise prohibited by local law or regulation.
• Only charcoal or dry, clean, untreated, or unpainted wood can be burned,

Also if you plan on having an open fire, the law states that "Fires cannot be left unattended, and you must have a water supply available and must be fully extinguished."

For the latest fire risk map click HERE.