Smoldering campfire blamed for blaze at Sand Flats State Forest

LYONSDALE- A campfire that was not properly extinguished is to blame for a local forest blaze in Lewis County, authorities say.

It was at around 10:30 a.m. last Tuesday when authorities were notified of a fire in the Sand Flats State Forest, town of Lyonsdale. New York State Forest Rangers Evans and Piersman both responded.

According to the New York State DEC, the fire managed to grow to nearly 4-acres in size, burning what officials called heavy duff and brushy understory.

Investigation determined that a campfire – which was not properly extinguished – was the spark that ignited this blaze.

The fire was officially declared out a couple of days later on July 14.

DEC continues to urge New Yorkers to practice the utmost safety when building campfires this summer. Dry weather throughout June and July has increased the risk of fires.