A state of emergency was declared in Cayuga County effective at 6 p.m. Tuesday by Cayuga County Legislature Chairperson Roger A. Mills.

The state of emergency was declared due to warmer temperatures and a lack of rain in the region. These conditions have caused a significant risk for brush fires.

Effective immediately a ban has been placed on all outdoor burning and recreational outdoor fires. The ban does not include controlled cooking fires where the fire is in a contained, controlled fireplace, barbecue grill or cooking pit. Individuals cooking outdoors must have proper extinguishment available.

This situation threatens public safety. The state of emergency is in effect for five consecutive days (to approximately Sunday, April 27), and then will be re-evaluated to determine if it should be lifted or extended, based on weather conditions.

"I hereby direct all the departments and agencies of Cayuga County to take whatever steps necessary to protect life and property, public infrastructure, and provide such emergency assistance deemed necessary." Mills said.

Read the full report in Wednesday's edition of The Citizen.