Brush Fires Ignited by Backyard S’mores on Long Island
An investigation has revealed that the recent brush fires on Long Island originated from a backyard in Manorville, where individuals were attempting to make s’mores. The accidental blaze spread rapidly due to dry conditions and high winds, causing substantial damage across the region.
Accidental Ignition and Spread of Fires
Officials disclosed that the fires were unintentionally started by individuals on N Cozine Road in Manorville who were trying to create s’mores. Suffolk Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina stated that the fire was ignited by attempting to use cardboard as kindling. The intense weekend winds carried the embers from Manorville to East Moriches, Eastport, and eventually Westhampton, where the largest fire emerged. Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine noted that the combination of downed trees and 35 mph winds fueled the fires’ rapid expansion.
The Westhampton Pines Fire encompassed approximately 600 acres over the weekend before firefighters were able to contain and extinguish it. Teams of firefighters from various parts of the county worked tirelessly to manage the blaze and address its hot spots within a 24-hour period. The swift containment efforts prevented further devastation and helped protect nearby communities from the spreading flames.
Response and Prohibition Measures
In response to the brush fires, Governor Kathy Hochul issued a prohibition on most outdoor camping, cooking, and warming fires in Long Island and parts of the Hudson Valley. This decision was made due to the prolonged dry conditions that increased fire risks in the region. While backyard fire pits, small campfires, and controlled cooking fires were exempt from the ban, the restrictions aimed to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The burn ban will remain in effect until the start of the annual statewide prohibition on outdoor fires on March 16, as announced by the governor’s office. Despite the restrictions, Romaine expressed gratitude towards the firefighters who battled the blaze, acknowledging the efforts of over 80 volunteer fire departments. Two firefighters sustained injuries during the firefighting operation but were later released after receiving medical treatment.
Numerous commercial buildings were impacted by the fires, with one structure being significantly damaged and another being described as “fairly destroyed,” according to officials. The aftermath of the fires highlighted the importance of fire safety measures and the need for increased awareness among residents to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
In conclusion, the brush fires sparked by backyard s’mores in Long Island serve as a cautionary tale about the potential dangers of outdoor fires during dry and windy conditions. The swift response from emergency responders and the implementation of prohibitive measures underscore the importance of proactive fire prevention strategies to safeguard communities and prevent widespread destruction. Through collaborative efforts and public awareness, communities can work together to mitigate fire risks and protect the environment from further harm.
