The recent Long Island Brush Fires in New York, have drawn significant attention after investigators linked them to a backyard s’mores-making session gone horribly wrong.
The incident, which began in Manorville, resulted in the Westhampton Pines Fire that burned approximately 600 acres before it was finally contained. The fires, exacerbated by strong winds and dry conditions, have raised concerns about outdoor fire safety and led to new regulations in the area.
The Incident: How a S’mores Session Turned into Long Island Brush Fires
On Saturday, a group of residents in Manorville attempted to make s’mores in their backyard, an innocent and common activity. However, in their efforts to ignite a fire, they used cardboard, which proved to be a disastrous decision.
Suffolk Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina explained that the wind conditions made it difficult to start the fire initially, but once the flames caught, the fire spread rapidly beyond control.
Despite the individuals’ attempts to contain the flames, the wind carried embers eastward, where they landed in dry brush near Westhampton. This ignited multiple fires that eventually merged into a large-scale wildfire.
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Initially, authorities reported four separate fires, but later investigations revealed that they were all linked, with embers traveling through the air and continuously sparking new fires.
The Devastation and Emergency Response
The Westhampton Pines Fire burned approximately 600 acres, causing significant damage to the environment and properties in the area. Firefighters and emergency responders worked tirelessly to contain the flames, but the wind and dry conditions made the situation challenging. According to officials, the fire was finally contained by 10:30 a.m. on the same day, but by then, the damage had already been done.
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine stated that the combination of recently downed trees and 35 mph winds created the perfect conditions for the fire to spread uncontrollably.
Wind-driven brush fires that burned on New York’s Long Island over the weekend, injuring two firefighters, appear to have been started by people making s’mores in their backyard. https://t.co/JloSVFofRz pic.twitter.com/wT8bqzU4ac
— AccuWeather (@accuweather) March 11, 2025
Emergency response teams from various parts of the county were deployed to battle the flames, and their swift action prevented the fire from causing even more destruction. Fortunately, only two buildings sustained damage, with one being nearly destroyed and another suffering significant losses.
Authorities have praised the efforts of firefighters, volunteers, and local officials who worked to control the blaze before it reached populated areas. Despite the severity of the fire, there were no reported injuries or fatalities, highlighting the effectiveness of the response teams in managing the crisis.
New Regulations and Fire Safety Measures
In response to the incident, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has implemented a burn ban for the affected regions, including Long Island and parts of the Hudson Valley.
The ban prohibits most forms of outdoor fires, including camping, cooking, and warming fires, in an effort to prevent further incidents. However, small contained fires, such as those in fire pits and small campfires, are exempt from the restriction.
The ban will remain in effect until March 16, when an annual fire prohibition on outdoor burning will take place. The decision reflects the ongoing dry conditions in the region, which make wildfires more likely. Authorities have urged residents to be extra cautious with any open flames, as even minor negligence can lead to catastrophic consequences.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of outdoor fires, especially in windy and dry conditions. Officials are calling for greater public awareness about fire safety and urging residents to follow guidelines to prevent similar disasters in the future.
The Long Island brush fires, ignited by a simple backyard s’mores session, demonstrate the destructive potential of uncontrolled flames in dry and windy conditions. The quick spread of the fire and the massive damage it caused have led to increased awareness about fire safety and prompted government officials to implement stricter regulations.
While the incident may have started as an innocent attempt to enjoy a traditional treat, it quickly escalated into a devastating event that required extensive emergency response efforts. Moving forward, it is crucial for residents to exercise caution when dealing with fire and to follow safety protocols to prevent similar tragedies.
As authorities continue to investigate the full extent of the damage, one thing remains clear: fire safety is a responsibility that everyone must take seriously, especially in regions prone to dry conditions and high winds. The lessons learned from this event should serve as a wake-up call for communities to be more vigilant and proactive in preventing wildfires.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏