Brush fire danger in CT: Fire officials provide safety tips in wake of NJ wildfire
Chief Kyran Dunn, of the Fairfield Fire Department, says people shouldn't discard cigarettes or cigars out their window on the highway.
As smoke from the New Jersey wildfire blows over to Connecticut, local fire officials are sharing tips on how to prevent future brush fires from happening.
Chief Kyran Dunn, of the Fairfield Fire Department, says people shouldn't discard cigarettes or cigars out their window on the highway.
If you have a lot of brush near your house, Chief Dunn says to rake it out and get rid of it because brush is fuel for fire.
"Make sure there’s not a lot of vegetation and brush that’s dead up near your house," Chief Dunn says. "If it does spread, it’s going to propagate right near your combustible siding or your windows."
Connecticut has seen its fair share of brush fires the past few months, like one on the Merritt Markway in New Canaan back in March, and one just a few days ago in North Stamford.
The American Lung Association is also offering tips to protect people from wildfire smoke.
Experts say people should limit time outdoors if the smoke gets bad, wear an N-95 mask if necessary, and call the free lung helpline if symptoms get worse.
While rain is forecasted for the weekend, fire experts say that doesn't necessarily mean the brushfire risk will go away.
“It buys you a little respite for maybe an hour after the rain stops," Chief Dunn says, "But if there’s warm sun and a wind, it’s going to dry right back up again."
