Department of Environmental Conservation

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Public Safety

At times, environmental conditions can threaten the health and safety of New Yorkers. DEC's press bulletins and website carry warnings when hazardous conditions threaten, and provide further information if an emergency develops. DEC's Environmental Conservation Officers and Forest Rangers play key roles in assisting citizens during certain types of health and safety emergencies.

Forest Fire Risk

During fire season, the Fire Danger Map, which shows the risk of forest fires in all areas of the state, is posted daily.

NY-ALERT Emergency Notification Service

The New York State Emergency Management Office has a free web subscription service (NY-ALERT) that provides subscribers with automatic notification of emergency situations from floods and hurricanes to incidents of public violence. Subscribers will be able to receive this information via e-mail, telephone, cellular device text messages, fax, pager or on the web through a RSS reader.

Other Health and Safety Information

Outdoor Safety - important information for staying safe while hiking, hunting, fishing, skiing or other outdoor activities

Drought Conditions - drought index intended primarily for guidance to public water suppliers.

Air Quality Index - today's forecast for ozone and fine particles


More about Public Safety:

  • Be Tick Free - Limit your exposure to ticks and tick-borne illnesses
  • Storm Information - information on storms, emergency notifications, emergency permits, and cleanup
  • Links Leaving DEC's Website
  • Contact for this Page
  • Office of Communication Services
    625 Broadway
    Albany, NY 12233-4500
    518-402-8013
    Send us an email
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  • Page applies to all NYS regions