As firefighters continue to monitor wildfires across the state this Veterans Day weekend, residents are urged to exercise extreme caution due to Red Flag Warning conditions.
The state faces strong winds and extremely dry conditions, increasing the risk for wildfires, according to the National Weather Service.
Since Oct. 21, Connecticut has experienced about 150 brush fires, of which 74 fires are currently being monitored and 13 fires are in the mop-up stage, according to the state’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Among those being monitored, 59 fires are being carefully watched for signs of reignition due to ongoing dry and windy weather.
“As we honor our veterans this weekend for their selfless service and sacrifice, we ask all Connecticut residents to do their part to protect our communities by exercising extreme caution during this period of high fire risk,” Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Katie Dykes said. “Together, we can safeguard not only our beautiful state but also the dedicated first responders working tirelessly to keep us safe.”
A statewide emergency burn ban remains in effect for all state parks, forests and wildlife management areas, prohibiting any outdoor flames, including grills, fire pits, and campfires, according to the state’s DEEP. Over 90 towns in the state have also implemented local burn bans to address the elevated fire danger this fall. For residents who live in a town with a local burn ban, the use of outdoor grilling or fire pits is prohibited in backyards.
“Residents are reminded to check for municipal burn bans in their area and to strictly adhere to these restrictions,” a spokesperson for DEEP said in a press release.
The state is currently experiencing its driest stretch of weather in decades. As of Nov. 7, the entire state was classified as experiencing moderate drought conditions, according to U.S. Drought Monitor.
“Until Connecticut receives a soaking rain of at least 2-3 inches, it will not be sufficient to lower the fire risk, and the public is urged to maintain a cautious approach to any activities involving fire or equipment that could spark a blaze,” a DEEP spokesperson said.
To minimize the risk of fire, DEEP is reminding residents to follow these essential safety guidelines:
- Ash Disposal: When disposing of ashes from wood stoves or fireplaces, ensure they are completely cool before placing them in a fire-safe container with a sealable lid. The container can be stored outdoors but must be kept away from flammable materials.
- Machinery and Equipment: Avoid using lawn mowers, chainsaws, and other machinery that could spark near dry grass and leaves.
- Cigarette Disposal: Dispose of cigarette butts properly in fire-safe containers.
- Vehicle Parking: Refrain from parking vehicles on dry grass, as heat from the exhaust system can ignite fires.
- Open Flames: Avoid using any open flames outdoors until conditions improve.
Stephen Underwood can be reached at [email protected]
