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Marianne LaBarge City Councilor | Ward 6 | Northampton, MA |
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WARD 6 |
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CITY COUNCILOR |
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MARIANNE LABARGE |
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MEDIA ADVISORY - November 5, 2024
November 5, 2024
Dear Northampton Residents,
In response to the unprecedented fire activity across Massachusetts and after a thorough review of current weather and ground conditions, we are implementing a city-wide temporary ban on outdoor fires, effective immediately and in place until further notice. This measure aligns with the Fire Chiefs Association of Massachusetts’ Board of Directors recommendation and guidance from State Fire Marshal Jon Davine and Governor Maura Healey, underscoring the critical importance of heightened fire safety precautions at this time. Over the past few days, alongside neighboring communities, Northampton Fire/Rescue has worked tirelessly to contain a significant brush fire in the Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area, which burned through 52 acres. Thankfully, this fire has been contained and we are grateful that no evacuations or direct threats to structures were necessary. However, dry conditions and strong winds make our entire region highly susceptible to further fires, which could spread rapidly and pose serious risks to our community. To prevent further incidents, Northampton Fire Rescue, in coordination with the Mayor’s Office, is temporarily suspending all outdoor fire permits and prohibiting the use of fire pits, chimineas, outdoor fireplaces, and other recreational or open flames not covered under state regulations (310 CMR 7.07). We also urge all residents to take extra caution when engaging in outdoor activities that could inadvertently ignite brush or dry leaves.
Why the Fire Ban Matters
Preventing outdoor fires is essential for protecting our beautiful natural spaces and ensuring the availability of emergency resources for all types of incidents. Every firefighter assigned to control a preventable outdoor fire is a firefighter unavailable to respond to a structure fire, motor vehicle accident, or medical emergency elsewhere. Our collective vigilance during this period will protect our first responders and help maintain emergency coverage across Northampton and our neighboring towns.
How You Can Help · Avoid using outdoor cooking or heating equipment.
· Refrain from using lawnmowers, ATVs, and other power tools near dry vegetation.
· Dispose of ashes from fireplaces in a metal can, douse with water, and secure the container.
· Fully extinguish all smoking materials in water or sand.
While we understand that outdoor fires are a beloved part of New England life, this temporary restriction is crucial to keeping Northampton safe as we navigate these unprecedented conditions. We will continue to monitor weather patterns closely and will lift the ban as soon as conditions allow. Please stay safe and continue to follow any local alerts and updates. Together, we can minimize the risk to our community and help keep Northampton safe. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation during this challenging fire season. For more information, contact the Mayor’s Office at 413-587-1249 or mayor@northamptonma.gov. Sincerely, Gina-Louise Sciarra, Mayor Andrew Pelis, Fire/Rescue Chief
Office of Mayor Gina-Louise Sciarra City of Northampton 210 Main Street, Room 12 413-587-1275 fax www.northamptonma.gov |