Long Island fire departments are preparing for a potentially dangerous day Saturday as dry conditions and high winds create a high risk of brush fires.

A red flag warning was issued for Saturday, signaling that these dangerous conditions could fuel rapid fire growth, making the situation particularly dangerous for firefighters and residents.

This warning comes as Long Island struggles with drought conditions.

Suffolk County has reported 168 brush fires since Oct. 25 and Nassau County has seen 53.

Firefighters are calling for greater caution as the slightest spark could start a major fire.

“The situation we’re facing is very dangerous, and the risk of fires spreading quickly is very much at risk right now,” said Deputy Chief Joseph Vereline of the Central Islip Fire Department. “A simple ash from one of your fireplaces could very easily start a fire. Throwing a cigarette out the window into the dry brush could very easily start a fire. And under current conditions, it could take off very quickly. »

Local authorities are particularly concerned about the drought conditions, which are among the worst seen in years.

George Gorman of New York State Parks added that several brush fires have already occurred in state parks in recent weeks.

To combat this growing threat, fire watch patrols have been established in five Suffolk County parks.

These patrols actively monitor for any signs of smoke or flame and even use their sense of smell to detect possible fires.

“They look for any flames and smoke, but they also smell if they detect smoke. If they notice anything suspicious, they will immediately alert the local fire department,” Gorman said.

These fire watch patrols will remain in effect throughout the weekend and until the fire risk subsides. Authorities are strongly advising the public to avoid any activity that could spark a fire, especially on Saturday.

For a look at fire prevention efforts, News 12 will accompany a patrol inside Connetquot River State Park on Saturday. Be sure to stay tuned to see how authorities are working to prevent disasters during this high-risk time.