New York State has issued a statewide ban on outdoor fires through November 30, 2024.

Due to persistent dry weather, and frequent windy conditions, the Fire Chiefs of the three fire departments in town urge Bedford residents to avoid any activities that could inadvertently ignite nearby dry leaves, brush, or grasses, including:

--Using fire pits or outdoor wood-burning fireplaces
--Burning brush or other yard waste
--Using charcoal grills or smokers
--Parking vehicles on dry leaves or grassy areas
--Operating tractors on tall grasses or meadows
--Disposing of cigarettes outside or throwing them from vehicles
--Allowing dry debris or brush to build up on or near exterior lighting or heat sources
--Setting off fireworks or sparklers outdoors

If you see or smell smoke, call 911 immediately. Quick notification allows fire departments to respond swiftly and helps contain potential spread. Note that fires may be sparked by electrical hazards, such as utility wires, which should not be approached by residents.

Vigilance is critical to preventing brush fires which could escalate into wildfires.

Bedford’s Fire Chiefs—Chief Matt Whalen of Katonah, Chief Graham Glauber of Bedford Village, and Chief Alex Dennett of Bedford Hills— urge residents and visitors to follow these safety guidelines to prevent potential fire outbreaks during this period of heightened risk.

Each of the three fire agencies in town have experienced brush fires in their districts and have provided mutual aid to other municipalities experiencing brush fires in recent weeks. These have been caused by backyard marshmallow roasting, landscaping lights igniting nearby dry debris, downed utility wires, and other usually innocuous activities. Thank you to our all-volunteer fire departments for their response.

Your cooperation with these precautions helps safeguard the community including our volunteer first responders, property and people in our town. Thank you.

Thank you to residents for helping us protect people and property during this Red Flag Warning period. And an enormous thank you to our three all-volunteer fire departments - who have already been called to assist in local brush fires started by back yard barn fires and outside lights with debris.