Open Flames, Outdoor Smoking Banned On Fire Island In Wake Of Dry Conditions

FIRE ISLAND, NY — Fire Island National Seashore officials said Monday they have enacted fire restrictions due to the prolonged dry weather with consistent winds, resulting in red flag conditions and high fire danger on Long Island.

The restrictions include a ban on outdoor smoking, except in personal vehicles, at the William Floyd Estate in Mastic Beach and along the Carrington Tract, which is located between Fire Island Pines and CherryGrove.

There is also a ban on open flames or cooking stoves in the backcountry areas of the Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness, just west of Smith Point County Park and east of Watch Hill.

The restrictions are in place to prevent harm to the seashore’s natural and cultural resources, as well as prevent the potential spread of fire to nearby communities, Deputy Superintendent Scott McCormick said.

"Closures will be lifted when fire conditions improve within the region," he added.

For more information, visit nps.gov/fiis or call 631-569-2100.