MONTICELLO, NY — With the New York State Burn Ban running this year from March 16 to May 14, Sullivan County Fire Coordinator John Hauschild is emphasizing the fact that open burning isn’t just illegal—it’s incredibly dangerous.

“Snow and ice are still around, but vegetation is really dry and easily set aflame by sparks and ash,” he explained. “I’m urging everyone to avoid open burning and the consequences that can come with it: callouts of local fire departments, damage to plants and properties and injuries—including death. Even if you start a fire accidentally, you can be held legally liable for the consequences.”

According to the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), open burning of debris is the single-largest cause of spring wildfires in the State. For details on the burn ban, visit the DEC’s website at https://dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/air-quality/open-burning.