MONTICELLO, NY —  New York State's burn ban went into effect last week and continues until May 14.

Sullivan County Fire Coordinator John Hauschild says open burning isn’t just illegal­—it’s incredibly dangerous.

“We’ve had a good bit of rain, but vegetation is still dry and easily set aflame by sparks and ash,” he said. “I’m urging everyone to avoid open burning and the consequences that can come with it: call-outs of local fire departments, damage to plants and properties, and injuries, including death.”

According to the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, 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 www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/32060.html.