Photo is of The Whitehouse Fire currently burning near Grahamsville, NY, taken by Fallsburg FD
UPDATE: There is now a Burn Ban in effect throughout the entire state of New York until November 30. Please DO NOT burn any outdoor fires during this time!
The Sullivan Catskills region is currently under a Drought Watch, and our Fire Coordinator John Hauschild has issued an urgent reminder about the severe risks of outdoor burning during these dangerous conditions.
“We’ve had minimal rain over the past few weeks, and vegetation has dried up due to the change in seasons,” Hauschild warns. “The smallest spark could easily set trees and brush aflame.” This heightened fire risk threatens not only our beautiful natural landscapes but also puts properties and lives at risk.
The current Drought Watch is the first of four state drought advisory levels (Watch, Warning, Emergency, and Disaster). While there are no mandatory statewide water restrictions in place, all residents and visitors are strongly encouraged to conserve water. Local water suppliers may implement specific conservation measures based on their conditions.
During this critical period, we urge everyone to:
- Avoid ALL outdoor burning
- Be extra vigilant with any potential ignition sources
- Follow any local water conservation guidelines
- Report any signs of fire immediately
Remember, preventing wildfires isn’t just about protecting our landscape – it’s about protecting our community, our first responders, and our neighbors. Let’s work together to keep the Sullivan Catskills safe during these dry conditions.
For updates on drought conditions and fire safety guidelines, please stay tuned to our local emergency management channels.
