Ridgefield Restricts Burning Amid Extreme Fire Conditions

RIDGEFIELD, CT — The Ridgefield Office of Emergency Management is warning residents about extreme fire conditions.

The caution echoes a Red Flag Alert for extreme fire conditions statewide, and the state of emergency declared by Gov. Ned Lamont Friday.

According to OEM and the State of Connecticut, the lack of rain, falling leaves, and prevailing winds have created a serious danger for the outbreak of brush/forest fires. Multiple fires are burning throughout Connecticut, as well as neighboring states, with both federal and state resources "already strained."

In Ridgefield, the following restrictions on burning will be in effect until further notice:

• No burning of any kind on State of Connecticut property.
• All pending brush burning permits are suspended.
• There will be no new permit issued until further notice.
• No bonfires or large fires will be permitted.
• No burning of any kind will be allowed on Town of Ridgefield owned property.

"Residents are asked not to light outdoor fires of any kind. If you must have a fire, please ensure that all safety requirements must be adhered to. This includes using a fire pit or fireplace, clearing back any combustible materials 20 feet from the fire, have a water source available near the fire, and no unattended fires," the advisory says.

Ridgefield residents with questions may call the Fire Department general line at 203.431.2726