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Be careful with your camp fires, state DEC warns

 A wildfire burns at Sam's Point Nature Preserve in Ulster County.
Department of Environmental Conservation
/
Flickr
A wildfire burns at Sam's Point Nature Preserve in Ulster County.

The State Department of Environment Conservation is now warning residents to take necessary safety precautions when building camp fires as the ground has become extra dry during June and July.

The department said camp fires are known to spread quickly, especially with windy conditions and rank in the top five causes that lead to wildfires.

They agency said campers should not build a fire on windy days, and should obey and be aware of local laws and ordinances. They also suggested having water sources at the ready to extinguish, like a bucket or garden hose.

The DEC advised to make sure camp fires and flammable materials are wet down, including coals at a distance of 10 to 15 feet around the fire. All trash burning in the state is prohibited.

John Smith has been waking up WAER listeners for a long time as our Local Co-Host of Morning Edition with timely news and information, working alongside student Sportscasters from the Newhouse School.