Crime & Safety

Contained Fire In Pit 'Quickly Escalated' To Brush Fire In Medford

UPDATE: It was one of two fires to break out in the area on Monday, authorities say.

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A contained fire pit quickly escalated into a brush fire in Medford on Monday, fire department officials said.​
A contained fire pit quickly escalated into a brush fire in Medford on Monday, fire department officials said.​ (Medford Fire Department)

LONG ISLAND, NY — A contained fire pit quickly escalated into a brush fire in Medford — one of two on Monday, authorities said.

Firefighters responded to the fire at Old Medford Avenue, between Peconic and Jamaica avenues, and thanks to their swift actions, the situation was under control within 30 minutes, according to a post on the Medford Fire Department's Facebook page.

The department took the opportunity to remind residents that a burn ban is in effect to prevent fires from rapidly spreading, and asked that they "refrain from burning during this time to protect our community and reduce fire risks."

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"Stay safe and vigilant," the post ended.

A second brush fire broke out on Whiskey Road in Ridge on Monday night, drawing area firefighters, Suffolk police said.

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It started with wires and an electrical pole at around 7:33 p.m., according to police.

The burn ban was placed in effect over the weekend after a series of wildfires broke out in the eastern portion of Suffolk County, including a very large one in Westhampton.

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