Brush Fire Warnings Issued In West Hartford

Town of West Hartford

WEST HARTFORD, CT — As a massive forest fire torches a prominent state park in Berlin, West Hartford officials say they, too, have had minor brush fires flare up in recent days.

And, as a result, town officials are urging folks to refrain from an open burning.

West Hartford's emergency management office said the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has ruled that Connecticut remains at "very high" to "extreme" regarding forest fire danger.

With no forecasted rainfall over the next week o alleviate conditions, this will remain in place for the week, at least, West Hartford officials said.

"Over the weekend, West Hartford experienced three small fires: a brush fire that was quickly contained, leaves on fire in a catch basin, and a grass fire that spread to the side of a garage," wrote West Hartford officials.

The West Hartford Fire Department, with the assistance of the homeowner, was able to extinguish the latter, the town said.

The risk of fire will be especially elevated on Thursday, Oct. 31, Halloween, due to unusually high temperatures and winds gusting up to 25 miles per hour, town officials said.

Residents are reminded to remain cautious and vigilant with any outdoor activities involving fire or sparks and they should call 911 immediately if they notice any fire or smoke.

People can also prevent accidentally starting a fire by heeding these warnings:

• Be careful with smoking materials to avoid accidentally starting a fire.
• Refrain from activities that can cause fires, such as grilling and fire pits. Never leave an outdoor grill or fire pit unattended.
• Never park your vehicle over grass or dry leaves.
• If you have a trailer on your vehicle, make sure the chains don’t drag on the ground while driving and spark a fire.
• No fireworks.