MONTICELLO — With the New York State Burn Ban having begun on Saturday, March 16, Sullivan County Fire Coordinator John Hauschild is emphasizing the fact that 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 explained. “I’m urging everyone to avoid open burning and the consequences that can come with it: callouts of local fire departments, damage to plants and properties, and injuries – including death.”

The Statewide Burn Ban runs until Tuesday, May 14 this year.

According to the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), 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 atwww.dec.ny.gov/chemical/32060.html.