Extreme Drought Leads To Dangerous Fire Conditions In RI

It's been an unusually dry summer in Rhode Island, and the state is gripped by an extreme drought. The dry conditions have led to dangerous fire conditions across the state, and the Department of Environmental Management is urging all Rhode Islanders to be extra careful to avoid brush fires.

This year, Rhode Island has seen nine inches fewer of rain this year, the DEM said.

"This drought has produced fire conditions that have left fuels readily available to burn," said Olney Knight, DEM’s forest fire program coordinator. "Once started, fires in these conditions are very difficult to bring under control and pose a significant threat to life and property."

All residents are encouraged to check with their local fire department about outdoor burn permits.

"DEM is urging residents to take precautions when using charcoal grills and matches while outdoors, disposing of cigarettes, cutting the grass with gasoline-powered mowers, and doing many other things we often take for granted," the department said in a statement.

The department encouraged Rhode Islanders to take extra caution with hte following during the extremely dry conditions.

• Never throw lit cigarettes out of car windows
• Be extremely cautious or avoid charcoal grills, matches and other open flames
• Avoid overfilling gas tanks in gasoline lawn mowers
• Use extra caution when cutting or fabricating metal
• Make sure spark arrestors are installed in all gas-powered equipment
• Avoid parking in tall grass
• Secure towing safety chains and dragging parts
• Make sure electrical equipment such as extension cords are in good working order and rated for their intended use

Read more:

• Lack Of Rain Brings 'Severe' Drought To RI
• Drought Advisory Issued Across Rhode Island