Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Emergency Burn Ban In Effect 10/26/24 - An emergency burn ban is now in effect for all Connecticut State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management areas, prohibiting the use of all outdoor grills, firepits, and campfires, and the kindling and use of flame outdoors. DEEP and local agencies are working to contain several active fires across the state. Please avoid all affected State Parks and Forests, as well as the blue-blazed Mattabesett Trail. The Enduro Trail in Voluntown and portions of North Stonington within the Pachaug State Forest are closed at this time. Please note that today's forest fire danger report remains at an 'extreme' level. More information about the current fire danger, burn ban and recommended safety measures can be found here

Anti-Idling Efforts In Connecticut

 

Casey's Clean Air WeekTurning Off Your Engine Helps Save Fuel, Lives and the Environment!

 

Reducing emissions from idling motor vehicle engines is one of the most important air-quality issues in Connecticut today. Connecticut is committed to reducing air pollution, protecting our health and improving the environment. "No Idling" is the law!

 

Why is Idling Harmful?

 

Idling Causes Air Pollution

  • An idling vehicle spews air toxics, chemicals, gases and particulate matter ("soot") into the air, contributing to regional haze, acid rain and global climate change.  
  • Every gallon of gas burned produces more than 20 pounds of greenhouse gases!

Idling is Unhealthy

  • Breathing in exhaust can aggravate asthma, allergies, and cardiovascular disease.
  • Exhaust emissions increase school absences, ER visits, and even premature deaths.
  • Emissions are still present and harmful, even when you can't see the exhaust.

Idling Wastes Fuel and Money

  • For each hour spent idling, a typical truck burns approximately one gallon of diesel fuel, and a typical car wastes 1/5 of a gallon of gasoline.
  • 10 seconds of idling uses more fuel than turning off the engine and restarting it!
  • Idling is like burning dollar bills!
What Can You Do?
 

You Can...

  • Take action and stop unnecessary idling!
  • Spread the word to family, friends, neighbors and school bus drivers. It's an easy way to contribute to a healthier community!
  • Be inspired to start a 'No Idling' campaign in your community, like the two Connecticut kids who started "Little People, Big Changes" and won a 2008 Connecticut Climate Change Leadership Award for their work!
  • Encourage your school district to post 'No Idling' signs and sign a No Idling pledge.
  • Drive your car to warm it.
  • Do not use remote starters.

Anti-Idling Home | Compliance & Enforcement | Outreach & Education | School Anti-Idling | Casey's Clean Air Week

 

Content Last Updated: September 9, 2021