DEEP Reminds Residents and Visitors to Exercise Caution During Fall Wildfire Season

Press Releases 09/17/2025 DEEP Reminds Residents and Visitors to Exercise Caution During Fall Wildfire Season Being Informed, Aware, and Careful is Critical to Preventing Dangerous Human-caused Wildfires (HARFORD, CT) - The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) reminds residents and visitors to our state that the typical fall wildfire season in Connecticut runs from October through the first widespread snowfall. During this period, dry weather and windy conditions, in combination with fallen leaves and increased sunlight reaching and warming the forest floor, can elevate the likelihood of a wildfire. Almost all wildfires are caused by humans and are therefore preventable. Maintaining awareness of fire danger and observing appropriate precautions are things that everyone can do to minimize the likelihood of starting a dangerous wildfire. Connecticut experienced record wildfire activity in fall 2024, with 605 fires burning more than 500 acres, destroying eight structures, and disrupting communities across the state. Governor Ned Lamont declared a state of emergency, issued a statewide burn ban, and activated the Northeast Forest Fire Protection Compact, bringing in support from other states and the National Guard. Hundreds of firefighters and personnel from municipal fire departments, state and federal agencies, and Compact partners dedicated thousands of hours to wildfire response. Eight firefighters were injured during the season, and most tragically, one firefighter, Robert Sharkevich Sr., lost his life in the line of duty. "The statewide emergency last fall was a stark reminder of the dangers wildfires pose in Connecticut," said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes. "Last year our firefighting capabilities were stretched to the limit, requiring assistance from other states, and Canada. We all share responsibility for preventing wildfires, and in doing so, we help keep our first responders and our neighbors safe. We ask everyone to be extra vigilant this season, by staying informed about the daily fire danger level and local open burning laws, properly attending to outdoor fires at home or when out camping, carefully disposing of home heating ash and smoking materials, and exercising caution with machinery and equipment that could spark near dry grass and leaves." As we enter the 2025 fall wildfire season and reflect on the historic events of last fall, DEEP reminds residents and visitors to our state of the steps they can take to minimize the likelihood of dangerous wildfires. By being aware and taking appropriate precautions, everyone can play a valuable role in protecting our families, neighbors, and communities. Stay Informed: Stay up to date on the daily Forest Fire Danger Level and Red Flag warnings. Follow all burn restrictions and local bans. If you have received a permit from your local Open Burning Official to burn on your property, the permit is not valid if the Forest Fire Danger is rated high, very high, or extreme. Keep in mind that wildfires can occur even when fire risk is moderate. Use Caution with Sparks, Flames, and Combustible Materials: Prepare Your Home: You can take steps to prepare your home for possible wildfire. Removing vegetation and combustible materials in a 30-foot perimeter around your home creates a wildfire buffer. Learn more from the National Fire Protection Association. Connecticut's fire risk is increasing as climate change drives more extreme weather patterns, which at times can include drier conditions, hotter temperatures, and stronger winds - all of which are risk factors for wildfire. Simultaneously, various forest pests and disease are also increasing the number of dead trees on the Connecticut landscape, further increasing our forest's vulnerability to wildfire. Across North America, once-resilient forests are struggling with these compounded pressures, and Connecticut's woodlands are no exception. DEEP thanks the public for remaining vigilant in protecting our communities, supporting the efforts of our first responders, and safeguarding the state's forests for future generations. If you spot a wildfire, remain calm, go to the nearest telephone, and dial 911 to report the fire as quickly as possible to your local fire department. Tell the emergency dispatcher when and where you saw the fire. If you see anything suspicious at or near the scene of the fire, take note and relay that to the dispatcher as well. Stay on the telephone until the dispatcher tells you to hang up. Other Helpful Resources How to Report a Wildfire Forest Fire Weather Information and Danger Explanations Forest Fire Prevention Tips Prepare Your Home for Wildfire For more information on forest fire prevention, visit the Smokey Bear website. Twitter: @CTDEEPNews Facebook: DEEP on Facebook Contact DEEP Communications [email protected] 860-424-3110 Twitter Facebook Email Print