There's an urgent reminder if you plan to be outdoors this weekend in the Hudson Valley. A burn ban is now in effect.

“Many regions are already in a drought watch or warning due to the dry conditions, and with the fire risk rising in some parts of the state, it is important to keep everyone safe by implementing this temporary burn ban," said Gov. Kathy Hochul.

The ban prohibits the starting of outdoor fires for purposes of brush and debris disposal, as well as all uncontained fires, including campfires and open fires used for cooking. Backyard fire pits and contained campfires less than 3 feet in height and 4 feet in length, width or diameter are allowed, as are small, contained cooking fires.

The ban is set to be in effect until Oct. 15.

First responders in the Hudson Valley say this ban needs to be taken seriously.

"There is no rain in sight. The weather conditions are very ripe for a brush fire or a wildfire," says Christopher Kear, who is the director of Fire & Emergency Services for Rockland County.

Officials in Greenwood Lake say they are staying alert.

Last year, a wildfire spread through thousands of acres. It took more than a week to put it out.

"Because of last year, when we start not getting rain, I get concerned immediately. It's a beautiful day today and during this week, but it's supposed to get cooler. People like outdoor fires," says Village of Greenwood Lake Mayor Thomas Howley.

You can read more about what this burn ban means here: