Officials bar brush burning due to fire risk

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) -- State officials say the open burning of brush is forbidden as dry weather conditions and high winds create the potential for fires to spread rapidly.

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environment said Tuesday that burning of brush is not allowed even if residents have permits.

A fire fueled by strong winds at the Devil's Hopyard State Park in East Haddam brought out firefighters from more than a dozen towns.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag warning for Connecticut because of conditions.

Environmental officials say anyone who notices a forest fire should dial 911 and report it as quickly as possible.