On August 24, 1995, 30 years ago, Long Island firefighters were battling the largest wildfire to ever impact our community and fire of historical significance in the State of New York. We take a moment to remember the tremendous efforts and courage shown by the volunteer firefighters of the Town of Southampton and firefighters throughout the rest of Long Island. Firefighters worked tirelessly for many days to gain control of the wildfires. By the conclusion of the efforts, more than 5,000 acres of Pine Barrens had burned. On behalf of the Town of Southampton we thank all our volunteer firefighters for their work in the 1995 Sunrise Fire and their selfless, ongoing efforts to protect our community every day.

We also take a moment to remember the need to care for our fragile ecosystem and to practice wildland fire safety.

• Remember to follow local and state regulations with regard to recreational fire safety and any temporary restrictions due to weather conditions.
• Practice camping fire safety and always make sure to never leave a fire unattended and drown outdoor fires with water when you are done with them.
• Create and maintain defensible space clear from brush immediately around your home.
• Develop an evacuation plan for fires and other emergencies.
• Carry out what you carry into any park, beach or nature space. Do not add foreign fuels to the environment that can contribute to the wildfire hazard.

To learn more about the Sunrise Fire and the Pine Barrens, visit: https://projects.news12.com/battleground:-the-sunrise-fire-of-1995/