First Selectman Fred Camillo and Governor Ned Lamont are urging Greenwich and Connecticut residents to halt all outdoor burning due to extreme fire risk statewide. This emergency advisory, underscored by Lamont’s recent state of emergency declaration, comes as the state battles more than 50 active wildfires, with the most significant blaze—the Hawthorne Fire—engulfing over 120 acres at Lamentation Mountain in Meriden and Berlin.
In his statement, Lamont highlighted the urgency, saying, “The filing of this 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.” Statewide dry conditions have created a dangerous environment, fueled by gusty winds and minimal rainfall, which increases the potential for rapid fire spread, according to the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).
DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes has implemented a statewide burn ban on all state parks, forests, and wildlife management areas. Dykes emphasized that “even a small flame could result in a large, uncontrolled blaze.” The ban includes outdoor grills, fire pits, and any open flames, with officials strongly recommending that residents also avoid lighting candles in pumpkins or using sparking equipment in residential areas. The fire danger level across Fairfield County and other regions is categorized as “extreme,” meaning fires can start and spread rapidly, particularly in wooded or dry brush areas.
Greenwich Fire Chief Joseph McHugh has expressed support for the emergency measures, noting that conditions in the town remain “volatile,” even as Greenwich has so far avoided major incidents. “Our priority is keeping the community safe, and we ask residents to remain vigilant,” he said, especially as Halloween approaches, when additional precautions with candles and decorations are advised.
The Connecticut National Guard has been actively supporting firefighting efforts with over 340,000 gallons of water dropped via helicopters staged out of Bradley International Airport. “We’re doing everything we can to contain these fires, and public cooperation is essential right now,” added Major General Francis Evon. State emergency officials remind residents to report any signs of fire by calling 911 immediately, providing exact location details to facilitate rapid response.
For updated fire conditions, advisories, and additional safety information, residents are encouraged to consult DEEP and Greenwich Fire Department resources online.
