New Jersey’s greatest danger of wildfires occurs during the spring months of March, April and May and the autumn months of October and November. Because trees are bare during these months, sunlight is allowed to reach the ground and dry the leaf litter on the forest floor. Winds during the spring and fall can be strong and dry, thus creating a deep, fluffy layer of hazardous forest fuels. Lastly, an ignition source can spark these fuels, creating a devastating wildfire.

Regardless of the season, conditions often allow wildfires to start. Wildfires may occur during any month and at any time of day, damaging valuable forests and natural resources, and threatening improved property and human lives. Wildfires can be prevented! 99% of all wildfires in New Jersey can be prevented by being careful with the use of fire.

Several times during late winter and early spring, the skies over New Jersey fill with smoke. While this often causes concern for our residents, it is common for them to be informed that the NJ State Forest Fire Service is merely conducting a “prescribed burn.” What is a prescribed burn? Technically, a prescribed burn is: “the skillful application of fire under exacting conditions of weather and fuel in a predetermined area, for a specific purpose to achieve specific results.” What this means is that, since 1928, the Fire Service has used fire as a tool to protect the lives and property of our residents living near the forestlands of New Jersey.

They do this by setting fires under exacting conditions to reduce the underbrush (the “fuel” for a fire), in areas that are prone to fire, or that may be located in a position where we feel we can defend against an oncoming wildfire. The use of fire in this way requires a level of skill and competence that we encourage through extensive, ongoing training. The primary purpose of prescribed burning in New Jersey is to reduce the hazardous accumulations of forest fuels. This aids in the prevention of wildfires, reduces the intensity of the fires, and also provides a foundation for safer, more effective fire suppression and protection operations.

The following tips can help you enjoy fire safely in the outdoors. For more information about fire safety in New Jersey’s Outdoors contact Fire Official Frank McDonnell of the Jackson Bureau of Fire Safety Districts 1 & 3 or your local Fire Warden. Division B Lebanon State Forest PO Box 239 New Lisbon, NJ 08064 Phone: (609) 726-9010
 
Campfires
All campfires require a permit. Check with your local Fire Warden or Fire Official regarding specific rules and regulations

Lanterns, Stoves, and Heaters
Cool all lanterns, stoves, and heaters before refueling them. They should be refueled on the ground in a cleared area; if any fuel spills, move the appliance to a new area before lighting it. Store flammable liquid fuel containers in a safe place. Never light lanterns and stoves inside a tent, trailer, or camper. If you use a lantern or stove inside a tent or trailer, be sure to have adequate ventilation. Always read and follow instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Smoking
When smoking outdoors, safe practices require proper disposal of smoking materials and matches. Grind out your cigarette, cigar, or pipe tobacco in mineral soil and ensure that match heads are cold before disposing. Be careful when smoking while riding a horse or trail bike.

Charcoal Briquets
After using burning charcoal briquettes, “dunk ‘em!” Don’t sprinkle. Soak the coals with lots of water; stir them and soak again. Be sure they are out — Cold! Carefully feel the coals with your bare hands to be sure.