(WFSB) – Gov. Ned Lamont declared a state of emergency Friday due to extremely dry conditions and a lack of precipitation in Connecticut, which have increased the risk of wildfires across the state.

“Over the past two months, Connecticut has experienced extremely dry conditions and a lack of rain, which has increased fire danger and caused more fires to start across the state,” Governor Lamont said.

The statement is intended to equip state and local emergency management officials with the tools to monitor fire threats, respond to active incidents and address any new fires that may arise.

The governor strongly urged all residents to avoid open burning, stressing the increased fire danger.

In a recent news conference, Lamont also announced that FEMA reimbursement has been expanded to cover some of the costs associated with fighting brush fires.

Lamont noted in his press conference Monday that FEMA reimbursement has expanded to cover the costs of brush fire suppression efforts.

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has imposed a ban on the use of open flames due to severe fire weather conditions.

This restriction includes outdoor grills, fire pits, campfires, and any use of flame in state parks, forests, and wildlife management areas.

As multiple agencies respond to brush fires across the state, emergency crews continue to battle a six-day fire in Berlin.

Residents are advised to avoid areas where fires are active and a no-fly zone has been established to assist firefighting efforts.

DEEP reports that most fires in Connecticut are caused by human activities.

Even a small spark can start a fire under these conditions. Common ignition sources include:

• Discarded smoking materials
  
• ATV and UTV activity especially without spark arrestors
  
• Dragging trailer chains
  
• Use of outdoor grills
  
• Campfires
  
• Power tools and equipment that generate heat or sparks
  

“These conditions pose a real and immediate threat to Connecticut communities,” said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes. “Every resident and visitor needs to understand that their actions have a direct impact on the safety of neighbors, firefighters and natural areas.”

Dykes also recommended using battery-powered flames in Jack-O-Lanterns instead of actual candles.

Connecticut remains at a VERY HIGH to EXTREME fire risk, with no precipitation is forecast next week to improve conditions.

For more information on fire danger and fire prevention, visit Fire prevention page on the DEEP website or contact the DEEP Fire Hazard Hotline at 860-424-3929.

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