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Filed Under:Brush Fires, FDNY, jim smith, Lonnie Quinn, National Weather Service, New York City Office of Emergency Management
A brush fire burns in Inwood Hill Park on April 21, 2014. (credit: CBS 2)A brush fire burns in Inwood Hill Park on April 21, 2014. (credit: CBS 2)

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) — Strong winds and dry conditions will raise the risk of brush fires in and around New York City on Thursday, officials are warning.

As WCBS 880’s Jim Smith reported, the National Weather Service has issued “red flag” warning, which indicates a combination of dry fuels and weather conditions could support extreme fire danger and make fire fighting difficult.

The FDNY and the city’s Office of Emergency Management are urging residents to be careful with outside barbecues and discarded cigarettes. The warning will be in effect for New York City and surrounding areas from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday.

According to CBS 2 meteorologist Lonnie Quinn’s forecast, the city will see winds of 25 to 35 mph Thursday, with gusts exceeding 35 mph. The high temperature is expected to be around 63 while the low will be around 39.

LINK: Weather Forecast

The FDNY and OEM also offered these tips to limit the risk of brush fires:

LANDSCAPING

· Keep your lawn, trees, and plants well watered.

· Mow regularly. Clear weeds, cut grass, and dry vegetation from around your home.

· Trim dead wood from trees. Remove branches less than 10′ from the ground.

· Use non-flammable plants for landscaping.

· Do not plant trees and plants too close to structures and under overhangs or eaves.

PROPERTY OWNERS

· Properly dispose of trash and debris, removing furniture, boxes and other material from your property.

· Store flammable liquids properly. Refuel garden equipment carefully.

· Keep the roof clean and clear. Remove leaf clutter from roof and gutters.

Officials also warned that anyone who witnesses a brush fire should call 911 immediately, rather than trying to extinguish itself.

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