Recent dry and windy conditions have resulted in numerous wildfires across the state. On Oct. 23, Forest Rangers responded to eight wildland fires in seven counties. The causes of these fires include unattended campfires and debris burning. Multiple tickets were issued for leaving campfires unattended and not clearing three feet around a fire. The largest of the fires was in the town of Berkshire, Tioga County, measuring nearly 24 acres. Rangers and firefighters also extinguished a 20-acre fire in the town of Lawrence, St. Lawrence County. Rangers and firefighters contained a fire in Potsdam, St. Lawrence County to 12 acres. The other fires were less than 1.5 acres in size.

On Oct. 24 at 2 a.m., Forest Rangers responded to a nine-acre fire in Sterling Forest State Park, and by 12:45 p.m., firefighters had the fire contained. Also on Oct. 24, Rangers responded to two fires in Steuben County and one in Oneida County. Each of those fires was under three acres in size.

On Oct. 25 at 1 a.m., Forest Rangers responded to a call for a fire on Hemlock Ridge Multiple Use Area in Plattekill. The steep terrain and rocky slope impeded a full containment line around the 46-acre fire. Eight Rangers, four DEC volunteers, 75 fire department members, and New York State Police Aviation helped get the fire under control.

On Oct. 27, Forest Rangers responded to a 13.5-acre fire in Ramapo, Rockland County, and an 18.5-acre fire in Dover, Dutchess County.

Conditions continue to result in a “High” fire danger in certain regions. A high fire danger means all fine, dead fuels ignite readily and fires start easily from most causes, including unattended brush and campfires. Fires may become serious and controlling them difficult unless attacked successfully while still small. An updated fire danger map is available on the DEC website. While the statewide burn ban is no longer in effect, brush burning should be conducted only when absolutely necessary. Burning garbage or leaves is prohibited year-round in New York State.

For more information about fire safety and prevention, go to DEC's FIREWISE New York webpage.