MIDDLETON, Mass. (WPRI) — Massachusetts is facing what officials describe as an “unprecedented fire event”; Many areas in New England are currently in fire danger. Red Flag Warning.

According to the Massachusetts Fire Department (DFS), an average of 15 brush fires are reported statewide each October. This year, the month’s total was capped at around 200; an increase of approximately 1,200% above average.

As the unusually high number of fires continues into November, Governor Maura Healey is urging the public to avoid any outdoor fires.

“There’s no fire pit, no charcoal grill, no burning leaves; there’s nothing that could spark right now,” he said.

Even though it’s only halfway through November, 261 fires have been reported this month alone, most of them human-caused, said Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) chief fire marshal Dave Celino.

“There was no lightning system in the region in October and November, and this is the natural cause of forest fires,” Celino said. “So we know that all of these fires are human-caused in some way.”

Most of Massachusetts, all of Rhode Island, and parts of Connecticut are currently protected. Red Flag Warning.

RELATED: Rhode Island DEM issues statewide fire ban due to increased wildfire risk

In response, some state parks were temporarily closed and open flames and charcoal fires were banned in all state parks.

“Weather conditions in Massachusetts have left outdoor fuel sources extremely dry. Any fire will spread rapidly and become very difficult to control,” Mass said. State Fire Marshal Jon Davine.

In fact, some fires can no longer be extinguished by firefighters and will continue burning until significant rainfall, frost or snow occurs.

“We have about 13 or 14 fires out there that have moved beyond that limitation, and they will remain active until the season-ending event occurs,” Celino added.

Three Massachusetts firefighters fighting these brush fires have been injured so far, according to Healey.

“My plea to the public is to do everything you can to minimize risks, protect our communities, save water and support our firefighters,” Healey said.

If you see smoke or flames, authorities ask that you call 911 immediately to help crews respond quickly and effectively contain the fire.

State fire marshal: Safety tips to protect your family and home

Closed

Thanks for signing up!

Follow us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports and streaming video, go to WPRI.com.