Current fire danger remains at the orange – or very high – level for the state, according to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
Ahead of Halloween and Diwali, the department issued a fire ban on all public lands and private properties and issued tips to safeguard communities. The ban is in effect “in response to prolonged dry conditions and increased wildfire activity until further notice.”
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DEP annouced the following rules:
- All outdoor fires are prohibited unless they are contained in an elevated stove using only propane, natural gas or electricity. Includes bonfires and residential fire pits.
- No wood or charcoal fires are allowed, and the use of kerosene or gas torches of any kind is prohibited while the level of restriction is in place.
- No firework celebrations are permitted.
- The fire ban is in place on all public lands and private properties in all municipalities throughout the state.
- Amplify and share safety information with residents. Most wildfires can be avoided by adhering to these commonsense safety tips:
- Don’t discard cigarettes, matches or smoking materials on the ground.
- Use indoor wood stoves and fireplaces carefully; both can emit embers that spark fires. Fully douse ashes with water before disposal.
- Be mindful where you park or drive your vehicle. Hot exhaust systems can ignite dry vegetation if parked or driven over it.
- Be careful when cutting your grass or using other yard tools. Power tools like lawnmowers and chainsaws can throw off sparks that ignite dry grass or leaves.
- Keep matches and lighters away from children.
For more information about how to protect your community from wildfire, visit njwildfire.org.
