Mind your butts! Enhanced risk of wildfire spread for most of N.J. today

     A New Jersey Forest Fire Service truck on the sceneof the 'Devious Mount' wildfire in Wharton State Forest in early April 2014. Crews contained the forest fire, which consumed 1,600 acres in a remote area, within approximately 24 hours.

    A New Jersey Forest Fire Service truck on the sceneof the 'Devious Mount' wildfire in Wharton State Forest in early April 2014. Crews contained the forest fire, which consumed 1,600 acres in a remote area, within approximately 24 hours.

    The National Weather Service has issued a bulletin advising of an enhanced risk of wildfire spread for most of New Jersey.

    As of Wednesday morning, the risk area includes all of the state excluding the northeast counties. 

    “Low relative humidity levels, gusty northwest winds, and drying fine fuels will create an elevated risk for the spread of wildfires this afternoon,” the bulletin advises. “No rain is expected Thursday, so the enhanced risk will also exist on Thursday afternoon.”

    The bulletin says to not park vehicles in grassy areas and to dispose of smoking materials properly. 

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    “It only takes one improperly disposed cigarette to ignite a fire,” the bulletin advises. 

    As Smokey Bear says, “Only you can prevent wildfires.” Here are some tips from him.

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