File photo of brush fire

BATH, NY (WENY) -- Steuben County is taking steps to mitigate the risk of wildfires due to dry conditions, by declaring a local state of emergency and burn ban.

According to County Manager Jack Wheeler, the state of emergency declares it is illegal to conduct outdoor burning from noon on Wednesday, March 12 until 11:59 A.M. on Monday, March 17, 2025.

Dry and windy conditions this week have created conditions to increased fire risk. Over the last several days, forest rangers and volunteer fire departments have responded to a number of wildfires. According to the county, the major concern is unprotected grass, timber and dry brush lots, along with gusty winds during this time of year.

On Tuesday, several Steuben County fire departments spent over three hours fighting a brush fire.  Officials say these fires spread very quickly, and require lots of manpower to put out.

"So once it hits the ground, it's going. It's going fast, especially up in the trees. With the wind blowing, it's just pushing it and it's ahead of us before we even get on scene," said Chief Michael Fiordio from the Bath Volunteer Fire Department.

The executive order applies to all open and recreational outdoor burning. Those caught knowingly violating the order face criminal charges.

Additionally, New York state's annual burn ban goes into effect on Sunday, March 16, and will remain in effect until May 15, 2025.