Suffolk County burn ban remains in place as wildfire risk rises

Suffolk County kept its burn ban in place as dry weather and gusty winds raised the risk that a backyard fire could turn into a brush fire in minutes. Residents were urged to skip open burning, clear leaves and brush away from homes, and treat any outdoor flame with caution while the danger remained elevated.

The statewide spring burn ban ran through May 14, and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation said no burn permits were issued during that period. Brush burning was prohibited across New York, while burning garbage or leaves remained banned year-round. Small backyard fire pits and campfires were still allowed only if they stayed under 3 feet high and 4 feet wide, were attended at all times, and were fully extinguished afterward.

State officials have tied the ban directly to wildfire prevention. The DEC said open burning is the single greatest cause of wildfires in New York State, and that since the spring ban began in 2009, wildfire numbers have dropped by more than 40 percent. The rule has been part of the state’s fire-control strategy for years because dry spring conditions can turn a routine yard fire into a fast-moving emergency.

In Suffolk, the fire danger rating is reviewed daily using weather data from a fire-weather station in Eastport owned and operated by the Central Pine Barrens Commission. The information goes to the Suffolk County Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services Communication Center, which broadcasts the rating to volunteer fire departments when the danger is moderate or higher. That system is meant to keep departments ready when hot, dry air and wind line up against the county’s wooded terrain.

The National Weather Service reinforced the concern on May 4, warning of southwest gusts of 25 to 30 mph and relative humidity of 25 percent to 35 percent in nearby parts of the region. Conditions like that can push embers quickly through dry grass, leaf litter, and pine duff, especially in and around the Central Pine Barrens and other brush-heavy areas.

County officials said anyone who sees smoke or fire should call 911 immediately. Wildfires can also be reported to 1-833-NYS-RANGERS, and Suffolk residents can sign up for emergency alerts by texting SuffolkSmart to 67283.