The annual spring burn ban officially began Monday.
It means no brush can be burnt until May 14, due to the risk of wildfires. The Department of Environmental Conservation said even though it’s still wet in the area, things can dry out quickly.
The DEC added that open burning of debris is the biggest cause of spring wildfires, damaging natural resources and endangering communities.
Residents are still allowed to burn small backyard and cooking fires. Only charcoal and unpainted, untreated wood are allowed to be burnt. For more information, residents can visit the DEC's FIREWISE website.
