New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation is urging extra caution with outdoor fires as dry conditions increase wildfire risk. This is part of the New York campfire warning initiative to ensure public safety.

In an October 30 advisory, DEC said much of the state was abnormally dry and fire danger was above typical seasonal conditions. Rangers have found fires linked to unattended or incompletely extinguished campfires.

Embers can remain dangerous

Hot embers can smolder underground for days or weeks, the agency warned. DEC discourages campfires outside established rings or pits and advises keeping any fire small.

Before leaving, thoroughly soak the fire, stir the ashes and check that the remains are cool. Never leave a fire unattended.

Check conditions before heading outdoors

Consult DEC’s fire danger map and local restrictions. Conditions vary, and the advisory should not be mistaken for a statewide burn ban or a specific Oneida County rating.

Report a wildfire to 911 and provide its location. Report unattended campfires on DEC lands to Forest Ranger Dispatch at 1-833-697-7264.

This is a dry-weather safety advisory. It does not attribute any individual fire to climate change.