‘Flying embers can travel a mile’ and other safety tips after Suffolk wildfires

Embers from a fire sparked by a family trying to make s’mores in their Manorville yard are believed to have ignited four weekend blazes in Suffolk County, according to fire officials — what experts said Monday is a reminder of how quickly and widely flames can spread outdoors.

Strong winds and arid conditions also played a part in spreading fires to East Moriches, Eastport and the Westhampton area — where officials said a wildfire burned 400 acres of woodlands.

Gov. Kathy Hochul issued an immediate burn ban Sunday for counties including Nassau and Suffolk, prohibiting people from disposing of brush or debris by burning it outdoors, as well starting uncontained campfires, recreational fires or open cooking fires.

The ban doesn’t apply to barbecue grills or similar outdoor devices used to cook food, according to Hochul’s order. It permits contained campfires less than 3 feet in height and 4 feet in length, width or diameter “if contained in a fireplace, hibachi or fire ring.”

The ban will stretch to March 16, when a prohibition on the open burning of debris or brush begins for all of New York and lasts until May 14.

With the latest woodland blazes in mind, experts on Monday shared some basic safety tips for outdoor fires in backyards and beyond.

What are some tips to keep a campfire safe?

“What we’re saying to everybody is very simple: Fires have to be contained,” Suffolk County Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services Commissioner Rudy Sunderman said of the burn ban.

John Gagne, a forest ranger with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, said people who make a small campfire should always clear a ring of 2 to 3 feet around the fire at soil level and ensure there are no flammable materials nearby.

“Wind picks up and you wouldn’t want that to ignite any surroundings. Don’t leave litter, anything like that,” Gagne added.

What about fire pits in a yard?

Gagne said that when the pit is in the yard, people should dig a hole and make sure the fire is self-contained. He said that especially during windy days, it’s important to make sure the area is clear of any debris.

Judy Jakobsen, executive director of the Central Pine Barrens Joint Planning & Policy Commission, said that during times of high fire risks, “you shouldn’t really be having those pit fires.” She added that “flying embers can travel a mile.”

For people who choose to anyway, she advised for them to put a screen over the fire pit, with openings no larger than an eighth of an inch wide so the “embers won’t be released.”

What should people always keep in mind on this topic?

Experts said outdoor fires never should be left unattended and should be thoroughly extinguished, whether you’re walking away or going to sleep.

“Make sure the campfire is 100% out before you leave it,” Gagne said.