"We’ve already had three fires in the Adirondacks over the past period of about a week.  The latest one was caused by an unattended campfire along upper Saranac Lake, along state lands there."

Winchell says those three recent fires burned 8 acres of woodlands. 

The DEC expects many people to be outdoors this weekend, and is prohibiting camp-fires in Eastern High Peaks Wilderness.

Winchell says under these high fire danger conditions, it’s safest for everyone to refrain from making camp-fires.  He recommends using a portable cook stove instead.

"We’re also asking if they do have a camp fire, that they’re very cautious with it.  Make sure fires are in pre-existent fire ring, rather than a new area.  All leaves and debris should be cleared out form around it.  Keep the fire small, and make sure the fire is out when you’re done.  And that’s using water, stirring it, and making sure all coals and embers are cool to the touch."

The DEC is also warning against burning brush - especially from late morning through early evening, and whenever it’s windy.

Winchell says barbeque grills should be kept from brush, grass and other flammable materials.