Connecticut Governor Rell Reminds Residents of Open Burning Restrictions When Forest Fire Danger is High

Commends Actions of Firefighters in Combating Brush Fires

April 25, 2008 -- As dry weather conditions persist and the state’s forest fire danger continues to be elevated, Connecticut Governor M. Jodi Rell today reminded residents of the current restrictions on burning brush on their property.

Forest fire: Photo by waterboi_atx

The Governor said that even if a property owner has received a permit from a local Open Burning Official to burn brush, the property owner can not do so within 100 feet of a grassland or woodland when the state’s forest fire danger is high.

“The dry weather has allowed the dead grasses and leaves to ignite rapidly,” Governor Rell said. “Many of the fires that have been reported are fires that have escaped from people who are burning brush and debris. I strongly urge residents to be mindful of using open flames outdoors.”

Forest fire danger levels are classified as low, moderate, high, very high or extreme. The current classification is “Very High.” The Governor said that fire danger will remain at an elevated level until the state receives a good rain and conditions improve. Anyone who spots a forest fire should dial 911 to report the fire as quickly as possible.

“Approximately 200 grass and brush and forest fires have been reported to fire departments statewide over the past week, and the efforts of our firefighters have been tremendous,” Governor Rell said. “Thanks to the work of these brave men and women, there have been no injuries or damage to major structures from these fires.”

The Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has responded to numerous requests for support from local officials with trained firefighting crews and specialized equipment.

Governor Rell urged residents to take note of the following Forest Fire Prevention tips:

* Making a fire safe zone around your house. Clean flammable vegetation and debris from at least 30 feet around the house and any outbuildings;
* Pruning away the lower limbs of evergreens that are within the fire safe zone. Evergreens catch fire easily during dry periods and burn quickly;
* Removing any limbs which overhang the roof or chimney;
* Regularly removing leaves and needles from gutters;
* Not storing firewood in the fire safe zone;
* Using fire resistant roofing materials;
* Making sure firefighters can find and access your home. Mark your house and roads clearly and prune away limbs and trees along your driveway which do not allow fire truck access;
* Have an escape plan and practice it;
* Following state and local open burning laws;
* Staying with outside fires until they are completely safe and dead out; and
* Disposing of wood ashes in a metal bucket, soaking them with water before dumping them.

For those who enjoy the use of Connecticut’s parks, forests, and open spaces, use fires with caution and follow these recommendations:

* Obey local laws regarding open fires, including campfires;
* Keep all flammable objects away from fire;
* Have firefighting tools nearby and handy;
* Carefully dispose of hot charcoal;
* Drown all fires; Extinguish smoking materials with caution.

Source: Connecticut Governor

Bookmark/Search this post with:

 •    •    •    •    •    •    •    •    •    •    •    •