Press Releases
04/07/2026
DEEP Reminds Residents and Visitors to Exercise Caution During Spring Wildfire Season
Being Informed, Aware, and Careful is Critical to Preventing Dangerous Human-caused Wildfires
(HARTFORD) — The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) reminds residents and visitors that the typical spring wildfire season in Connecticut begins in mid-March and lasts until leaf-out, usually in early May. During this period, dry weather and windy conditions, combined with increased sunlight reaching and warming the forest floor, can increase the likelihood of wildfire.
Almost all wildfires are caused by human activity and are therefore preventable. Maintaining awareness of fire danger and taking appropriate precautions are actions everyone can take to reduce the likelihood of starting a dangerous wildfire.
Connecticut’s wildfire risk is increasing as climate change contributes to more extreme weather patterns, which can include periods of drier conditions, hotter temperatures, and stronger winds, all of which increase wildfire risk. At the same time, forest pests and diseases are increasing the number of dead and dying trees across the state, further raising the vulnerability of Connecticut’s forests to wildfire. Across North America, forests that once were resilient are facing these combined pressures, and Connecticut’s woodlands are no exception.
DEEP has proposed legislation in 2026 to strengthen Connecticut’s wildfire preparedness and response capabilities. The Environment Committee demonstrated strong bipartisan support for House Bill No. 5152 by voting to advance the bill out of committee last month for consideration by the entire general assembly.
“The 2024 Hawthorne Fire, one of the largest wildfires in recent Connecticut history, was a stark reminder that our state must be prepared for more frequent and intense fire conditions,” said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes. “That experience prompted DEEP to propose legislation to strengthen our wildfire readiness. We appreciate the Environment Committee’s strong bipartisan support and thank them for advancing this important measure to better protect our communities, our first responders, and our forests from wildfires.”
“During spring wildfire season, even a moment of carelessness can have serious consequences," State Fire Marshal Lauri Volkert said. "Just a small spark can escalate when conditions are dry and windy. We’re urging everyone to take fire safety seriously. Follow local burning laws, stay alert to daily fire danger ratings, and use extra caution with anything that could ignite vegetation. When residents do their part, it makes a real difference in keeping our communities and first responders safe.”
In 2025, there were approximately 256 wildfires reported in Connecticut. Most were caused by uncontrolled debris burning and campfires. Other causes included smoking, power lines, and equipment use.
As the 2026 spring wildfire season begins, DEEP encourages residents and visitors to take simple steps to reduce the risk of wildfire. By staying aware and taking appropriate precautions, everyone can play a role in protecting families, neighbors, and communities.
“We all share responsibility for preventing wildfires,” said DEEP State Forester Chris Martin. “By staying informed about daily fire danger levels and following open burning laws, residents can help protect their communities and keep first responders safe. We encourage everyone to properly attend to outdoor fires, carefully dispose of ashes and smoking materials, and use caution when operating equipment near dry grass and leaves.”
Stay Informed: Stay up to date on the daily Forest Fire Danger Level and Red Flag warnings, and follow all burn restrictions and local bans. If you have received a permit from your local Open Burning Official to burn on your property, the permit is not valid if the Forest Fire Danger is rated High to Extreme. Keep in mind that wildfires can still occur even when fire risk is rated Moderate.
Use Caution with Sparks, Flames, and Combustible Materials:
Outdoor Fires: Never leave an open flame unattended. Completely extinguish fires using Smokey Bear’s “drown, stir, drown, feel” method.
Home Heating Ash: When disposing of ashes from wood stoves or fireplaces, ensure they are completely cool and place them in a fire-safe container with a sealable lid.
Machinery and Equipment: Use caution when operating grills, vehicles, lawnmowers, chainsaws, and other machinery that could spark near dry grass or leaves.
Smoking Materials: Dispose of cigarette butts and other smoking materials properly in fire-safe containers.
Prepare Your Home: Residents can also take steps to prepare their homes for wildfire. Removing vegetation and combustible materials within 30 feet of your home helps create a defensible space that can reduce wildfire risk. Learn more at the National Fire Protection Association.
If you spot a wildfire, remain calm and dial 911 as soon as possible to report it. Provide the emergency dispatcher with the location of the fire and when you observed it. If you notice anything suspicious near the scene, relay that information to the dispatcher and remain on the line until instructed to hang up.
DEEP thanks the public for remaining vigilant in protecting our communities, supporting the efforts of first responders, and safeguarding Connecticut’s forests for future generations.
Other Helpful Resources
Forest Fire Weather Information and Danger Explanations
Prepare Your Home for Wildfire
For more information on forest fire prevention, visit the Smokey Bear website.
- Twitter: @CTDEEPNews
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Contact
DEEP Communications
DEEP.Communications@ct.gov
860-424-3110