Fire crews from across Connecticut battled several wildfires across the state on Thursday, including ones in Berlin, Canaan, Vernon and Weston. According to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, the fires are continuing to spread rapidly due to dry weather conditions.
“Connecticut is experiencing unseasonably warm and dry conditions that have significantly increased the risk of wildfires across the state,” said DEEP commissioner Katie Dykes in a release on Thursday. “The dry weather coupled with the accumulation of fallen leaves, creates the perfect conditions for fires to ignite and spread quickly. It’s critical for everyone to be aware of the heightened fire danger and to take precautions to prevent accidental fires during this vulnerable time.”
As of Thursday evening, CT DEEP fire crews along with state and local firefighters were managing the Hawthorne Fire on Lamentation Mountain in Berlin which was estimated at 107 acres as of Thursday. The Connecticut Air National Guard and Maine Forest Service provided air support, dumping water from Silver Lake on areas determined “too dangerous for firefighters.”
Funeral arrangements set for fallen CT firefighter; Hartford PD preparing for large crowds
A no-fly zone also remained in effect to protect aerial firefighting operations.
“DEEP urges the public to cease the use of drones in the area,” officials said. “When drones are spotted visually or through the monitoring equipment in use, all aircraft conducting support are cleared from the airspace until the threat is removed. This hampers the operations, increases risk and delays response.”
Rugged terrain and forecasted winds have also created additional challenges in Berlin, making the use of specialized equipment, including 10 utility terrain vehicles and 30 fire engines, critical in battling the fire.
“The response to the Hawthorne Fire is a true example of teamwork with local, state, federal, and private sector partners working together to manage and respond to an emergency,” said Brenda Bergeron, deputy commissioner for the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. “Special shoutout to the CT towns and personnel from other states in New England providing essential mutual aid.”
DEEP fire crews were also assisting with Canaan blaze estimated to be 2.8 acres in the area of Cobble Road and Route 63; a Vernon fire over nine acres in the area of 183 Reservoir Road; and are monitoring a fire at Weston Saugatuck Reservoir Island, which is estimated at 0.8 acres.
Officials honor CT firefighter killed in UTV crash as crews continue to battle brush fire in Berlin
According to DEEP, most wildfires are caused by the “improper burning of debris, campfires, discarded wood ashes or equipment.” Officials offered the following forest fire prevention tips.
- Avoid campfires or outdoor burning while fire danger remains high. Obey local laws regarding open fires, including campfires.
- Keep all flammable objects away from fires, and scrape away leaves, twigs, and grass within a 10-foot diameter circle from the fire.
- Have firefighting tools nearby and handy.
- Never leave a fire unattended.
- Drown all fires and carefully dispose of hot charcoal.
- Extinguish smoking materials carefully.
DEEP officials also recommend that homeowners create a “fire-safe zone” by clearing flammable vegetation and debris within 30 feet of the house. They also recommend:
- Pruning the lower limbs of evergreens, which burn quickly during dry periods.
- Removing limbs that are overhanging the roof or chimney and clearing leaves from gutters.
- Using fire-resistant roofing materials and ensuring that firefighters can access the home by clearly marking roads and maintaining driveways.
“If you spot a forest fire, dial 911 immediately and calmly provide the dispatcher with details about when and where you saw the fire. If you see any suspicious activity near the fire, report that as well,” DEEP officials said.
Originally Published:
