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

Press Releases

DEEP News Release Header

08/09/2024

DEEP Announces Connecticut Interstate Fire Crew's Return from Oregon Deployment

Returning Oregon CIFC Crew Members:

  • Nathan Leclair from Norwich, CT
  • Lillian Glynos from Quaker Hill, CT
  • Brandon Wood from Shelton, CT
  • Brian Edwards Procida from Brockton, MA
  • Robert Yost from Milford, CT
  • Jason Elliot Bjornberg from East Haddam, CT
  • Steven Thomson Pellicano from Bethany, CT
  • Daniel Denyer from Bloomfield, CT
  • Brody Danielson from Coventry, CT
  • Corey Pelletier from Exeter, RI
  • Andrew Fitzsenry from Providence, RI
  • Abigail Merchant from Griswold, CT
  • Alan Olenick from Lebanon, CT
  • Anthony John Flamino from East Otis, MA
  • Gunnar George Norback from Cheshire, CT
  • Tristan Benjamin Renshaw from Tolland, CT
  • Zachary Placzek from South Windsor, CT
  • Michael Kronick from Stratford, CT
  • Jeremy Clark from East Hartland, CT

DEEP's Forestry Division, which oversees CIFC, diligently maintains a roster comprising agency staff members and private individuals, many of whom are closely affiliated with local fire departments. These dedicated individuals have undergone rigorous training and successfully completed an annual physical work capacity test and refresher training. CIFC's unwavering commitment to upholding these high standards exemplifies the professionalism and readiness of its team members.

"The Connecticut Interstate Fire Crew is an excellent example of how Connecticut helps support its fellow states,” said Governor Ned Lamont. “The members of the CIFC are dedicated individuals who have my thanks for not only the difficult and critical work they do, but for also being wonderful examples of what makes Connecticut such a great state.”

“I deeply appreciate the dedication and selflessness of the Connecticut Interstate Fire Crew,” DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said. “The willingness of these individuals to take time out of their lives to protect others across the country is a testament to their bravery and commitment to serving others. I am particularly proud of the DEEP Staff members who took part in this deployment.”

DEEP applauds the dedication of CIFC's team members and their indispensable role within the framework of the U.S. Forest Service's reciprocal aid program. Their commitment to protecting communities and natural resources from wildfires epitomizes the spirit of collaboration and service that DEEP cherishes.

About Connecticut Interstate Fire Crew (CIFC)

The Connecticut Interstate Fire Crew (CIFC) is a dedicated team of firefighters committed to protecting our communities and natural resources from the devastating effects of wildfires. With a strong emphasis on safety, training, and collaboration, CIFC responds to wildfires and other emergencies nationwide, making a difference one blaze at a time. CIFC operates under the coordination of DEEP's Forestry Division and actively participates in the reciprocal aid program operated by the U.S. Forest Service.

Twitter: @CTDEEPNews
Facebook: DEEP on Facebook

Contact

DEEP Communications  
DEEP.communications@ct.gov
860-424-3110