As Wildfire Season Approaches in New Jersey, Forest Fire Service Urges Public to Exercise Caution

For Immediate Release

Contact: Kerry Hadrava

Whether it be due to accidents, carelessness, negligence or even arson, humans remain the root cause for nearly all wildfires throughout the United States.

“It is extremely important that the public understand that a moment of carelessness can cause a wildfire that puts lives and homes at risk,” stated State Firewarden Gregory S. McLaughlin. 

“Although March was rainy and snowy, conditions change rapidly. This time of year, warmer and windy weather dries out forests quickly, which creates conditions more prone to rapid growth of a wildfire, particularly in the Pinelands,” he continued.

Trees and shrubs do not yet have a full set of leaves, allowing more sun to reach the dried out vegetation, leaves and pine needles covering the forest floor.

The Pinelands, located within a large area of Southern New Jersey, are extremely vulnerable, as their main species of trees and shrubs are known to be highly flammable. 

Although not always predictable, most wildfires are preventable. In order to help prevent wildfire the New Jersey Forest Fire Service set forth these guidelines:

• Before starting a campfire, obtain required permits from nearest Fire Service Office.
• Fully douse ashes or embers in campfire with water.
• Teach children about fire safety. Never leave children unattended with a fire, matches, lighter, etc.
• Use ashtrays in vehicles and don’t throw cigarettes or matches on the ground.
• Report suspicious activity to authorities.

To locate your local Forest Fire Service office: www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/fire/contactus.html

To report a wildfire, call 9-1-1 or 1-877-WARN-DEP.