New Jersey forest fire service on high alert for fall season: 'here to help'
BURLINGTON COUNTY, N.J. - They're the first line of defense against New Jersey's forest fires.
Though it's late October, there's no rest for the weary.
"The weather's warm, the leaves are falling off the trees, we're low humidity and windy conditions, and it's been very dry, no rain for a long time now," said Trevor Raynor, Assistant Division Forest Fire Warden with the New Jersey Forest Fire Service.
All of New Jersey is at "very high" risk for fires. The ingredients are there, much like in the spring when the temperatures rise, and the canopy is still developing.
"Fall fire season is normally shorter lived than the Spring," said Raynor. "This year's just a more severe fire season this Fall."
During times of very high risk, the Forest Fire Service is bolstering its staff, ready to put themselves in harm's way to protect others.
"They're all committed; they're here to help," said Raynor.
In the depths of Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, which spans parts of Burlington and Ocean Counties, they're preparing to respond to any fires that may ignite from below and above.
But they're asking everyone in the garden state to do their part; a fire ban is in effect statewide.
That means no fires in wooded areas, firepits in the backyard, or charcoal fires. Elevated gas grills are okay.
They also advise caution when handling discarded cigarettes. By doing so, you're helping them help you.
"We're just operating at a super high level right now," said Raynor.
You can view the New Jersey Fire Danger Dashboard here.