New Jersey’s top environmental regulator, Shawn LaTourette, is urging residents to conserve water and be cautious of fire risks as the region faces drought conditions. The South Jersey region is currently experiencing extreme drought, with nine of the last 10 months seeing below average precipitation. The lack of rainfall and snow over the winter has led to dry forests and stressed drinking water sources. Last fall, New Jersey firefighters battled a high number of wildfires due to severe drought conditions. This year alone, the Forest Fire Service has responded to 356 wildfires, burning 1,242 acres – a 266% increase from the same time last year. With peak wildfire season approaching, fire officials are asking residents to avoid discarding cigarettes in wooded areas, use indoor wood stoves with caution, and lift chains from trucks that can spark fires. Everyone is urged to use extra caution while outdoors to prevent wildfires.
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