Thursday?s dry, hot weather has forced the National Weather Service to issue an elevated fire threat warning for southwestern Connecticut. Firefighters across the area have put out at least three brush fires within the last 24 hours. Dead leaves and vegetation coupled with recent dry weather have sparked concern in Milford. Despite last week's rainfall, authorities say it wasn't enough to saturate the grounds. The town's latest brush fire charred at least three acres of land. While fire investigators are not sure what ignited Wednesday's flames, they are urging neighbors to take extra precautions by not throwing cigarettes out the window or matches on the ground. Burning garbage or brush is prohibited and campfires are not permitted in Milford until further notice.