Severely Dry Conditions Continue, Outdoor Fires Prohibited

County Executive Day Issues Executive Order Burn Ban

Severely Dry Conditions Continue, Outdoor Fires Prohibited

New City, NY– In response to ongoing dry conditions and increased fire danger, Rockland County Executive Ed Day has issued anexecutive orderfor a countywide burn ban, effective immediately. This action is taken in consultation with the Rockland County Office of Fire and Emergency Services, in light of the National Weather Service’s red flag warnings indicating heightened fire risk.

The ban prohibits all outdoor burning activities, including but not limited to the burning of brush, leaves, and other yard debris, along with fire pits and campfires, are all restricted until further notice. This decision is in response to abnormally dry conditions that pose a significant risk for fires to ignite and spread quickly due to recent lack of rainfall, low humidity, and gusty winds.

“Ensuring the safety of our residents and preserving our natural resources are my top priorities,”said County Executive Day.“Under these extremely dry conditions, even a small spark could lead to a significant and fast-moving fire which we just saw occur over the weekend in Hillburn. We are urging everyone to adhere to this ban until we receive sufficient rainfall.”

“With the recent large brush fire on the mountain in Hillburn and several other smaller brush fires throughout the county, a ban on all open burning is necessary at this time. Dry conditions leave our open spaces incredibly susceptible to fire, including residential neighborhoods,”County Fire and Emergency Services Director Chris Kear explained. “By reducing potential ignition sources, we can prevent dangerous situations and protect both lives and property.”

Exceptions to the ban include firefighting training or burn operations approved by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and cooking on a contained grill. Violations of the burn ban are a Class B Misdemeanor and may result in fines and other penalties as outlined by county regulations.

The County will continue to monitor weather conditions closely and will lift the ban once it is deemed safe. Updates on the burn ban will be posted on the county’s website and social media channels.

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