Siobhan [SHIV-on] Barton is reporting in the Register Star Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo Wed., May 13, issued a high fire danger burn ban. This declaration is an addition to the extension of the statewide brush burning ban until May 21. The governor’s ban prohibits outdoor fires usually permitted under a standard burn ban, including campfires, recreational fires and open fires for cooking. Use of untreated wood or charcoal, normally allowed during a brush burning ban, is also illegal during this time period. According to the governor's office, open burning of debris is the largest single cause of spring wildfires in the state.