For Release: Friday, April 24, 2009

Fire Danger Advisory for DEC Region 5 (Northeast N.Y.)

The Fire Danger Rating is VERY HIGH throughout the eight counties administered by DEC Region 5 - Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, Warren, Fulton, Saratoga and Washington, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Regional Director Elizabeth Lowe announced today.

Despite recent rains and snow, the warm temperature, clear sky, and low humidity predicted for today and will quickly result in very dry grass, leaves and other dead vegetation. DEC Forest Rangers advise people to refrain from any open burning until after next week's expected rains. People should also be careful with other ignition sources such as cigarettes, matches, barbecue grills, hot machinery and exhaust systems and any possible source of sparks.

A VERY HIGH Fire Danger rating means that fires can start easily from all causes and, spread rapidly and increase quickly in intensity, immediately after starting. High intensity fires can quickly develop.