Fire Danger Remains Alarmingly High, Guilford Fire Department Says

Information via Guilford Fire Department

GUILFORD, CT — With an extended period of dry weather continuing in Connecticut, the Guilford Fire Department is reminding residents that "fire danger remains alarmingly high."

Gov. Ned Lamont last Friday declared a state of emergency due to the critical fire weather conditions, as well as the continued response to the brush fire at Lamentation Mountain in Berlin and Meriden, which is being commonly referred to as the "Hawthorne Fire."

The emergency declaration will help provide state and local emergency management officials with the necessary tools to monitor and limit the threat of potential fires, respond to active fires, and respond to any additional fires that may start, Lamont said.

Robert Sharkevich Sr., 66, was killed last week after a Weathersfield Volunteer Fire Department utility vehicle specially designed for battling forest fires overturned during firefighting operations late Tuesday afternoon.

"With breezy conditions, dry soil, and a lack of significant rainfall, these conditions create a 'perfect storm' for fires to ignite and spread quickly," the GFD said Monday.

"We know that Guilford residents cherish our natural surroundings, but even a single spark can lead to a fast-moving fire that can damage our beautiful forests, threaten wildlife, and put our community’s safety at risk," the GFD added. "Small acts of prevention can save lives, homes, and precious land. That’s why open fires, including brush burning and campfires, are currently prohibited across the state."

The GFD offered tips to residents on how they can help stay safe:

1. Avoid Outdoor Burning– Open fires are not permitted, and this includes bonfires, fire pits, and any other outdoor flames. Please ensure that any prior fires have been fully extinguished.
2. Be Mindful of Ignition Sources – Simple actions like disposing of cigarette butts, using equipment outdoors that can spark, or parking vehicles on dry grass can lead to unintentional fires.
3. Stay Informed – The Guilford Fire Department and state agencies will continue to monitor and report on fire conditions. Tune in to local news and check state advisories for updates.