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As wildfires continue to burn across the Pine Barrens, stretching from the Hamptons to East Moriches, local residents are stepping up to offer assistance to those affected — including horse owners in need of emergency evacuation.
Sam Ayala, an equestrian horse trainer from Manorville, has volunteered her services to help transport horses away from danger. She said she has a truck and trailer ready to assist anyone in need of relocating their animals.
“If anyone needs help relocating and evacuating any horses that are close to the wildfires out east, please call or text me,” Ayala said in a Facebook post on Saturday. She can be reached at 631.835.6282.
Commenters on Ayala’s Facebook post also offered the same assistance.
The fires, fueled by dry weather, high winds, and damage to woodland areas caused by the Southern pine beetle, have prompted widespread emergency response efforts. Southampton Town Supervisor Maria Moore has declared a state of emergency, and South Shore fire departments from Brookhaven to Hampton Bays are working to contain the blazes.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul ordered the state National Guard to assist in the crisis.
Horse owners in the area are encouraged to assess their evacuation plans and take advantage of assistance if necessary.
Top photo: Facebook/Sam Ayala
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