Arson Prompts CT To Install Fire Extinguishers In Local Ballot Boxes

CONNECTICUT — The state government is shipping fire suppressors to each municipality for installation inside absentee ballot drop boxes.

The move follows reports of ballot box arson in Portland, OR, and Vancouver, WA, on Monday.

Connecticut Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas called the fire suppressor distribution, a collaboration between the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection and her office, a proactive measure.

"Safeguarding our elections is a top priority. By staying ahead of potential threats, we can take a strong stand, ensuring a safe and secure process for all. Every voter should have confidence in casting their ballot no matter if it’s in person or at a drop box," Thomas said.

The tech is "designed for easy installation (and) can be easily mounted and installed inside absentee ballot drop boxes," according to a statement from the SOTS released Thursday.

A fire suppression system inside the Portland box — and the timely intervention of a security guard — were instrumental in saving all but three ballots from destruction in Portland, according to a report from the Associated Press. Registrars in Vancouver were not as fortunate: a fire suppression system in a ballot box there failed to prevent hundreds of ballots from going up in smoke.

Election officials are advising residents who see something suspicious around polling locations or on social media to report it to the State Elections Enforcement Commission hotline 1-866-733-2463.

More information about voting in Connecticut is available online here.