Dutchess County Under Red Flag Fire Warning
Brush Fires Reports have doubled in last two weeks

Poughkeepsie… Dutchess County Emergency Response Coordinator Dana Smith reminds all Dutchess County residents that all outdoor burning including burn barrels, brush piles and camp fires greater 3 feet high and 4 feet in length are currently banned in New York State. Any fire that is allowed under the standard must be attended at all times and fully extinguished. Dutchess County is currently under a “RED FLAG FIRE WARNING” from the National Weather Service due to heightened fire danger from strong winds and low humidity as well as recent dry conditions.

Dutchess County 9-1-1 Communications Center has experienced a two fold increase in reported brush fires over the last two weeks.

“The combination of dry weather and wind create optimal conditions for brush fire and people need to realize the danger is significant.  Many residents will be taking advantage of the warmer weather this weekend for outdoor spring cleanup.   They must remember that it is very important to avoid all outdoor burning in order to prevent serious fire situations,” said Emergency Response Coordinator Dana Smith.

According to the National Weather Service (Albany office), a FIRE WEATHER WARNING is in effect for Dutchess County from noon today (Friday) through 6pm this evening. A RED FLAG warning means that critical fire weather conditions are occurring. A combination of strong winds and low relative humidity can create explosive fire growth potential.

Dutchess County Emergency Response officials have advised local fire departments to be on heightened alert as a result of the Red Flag Fire Weather Warning. The Department of Emergency Response will continue to closely monitor weather conditions.

Residents can log on http://www.erh.noaa.gov/aly/ for the most up-to-date weather information and advisories from the Albany office of the National Weather Service.  To learn more about the New York State’s outdoor burning ban, visit http://www.dec.ny.gov.