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Fire danger has increased across Massachusetts as deadly wildfires burn in the neighboring state

According to the National Weather Service, there is an increased risk of fires in Massachusetts as a deadly wildfire continues to burn in Connecticut.

The combination of recent dry weather, gusty winds and lower humidity is creating favorable conditions for wildfires to spread in Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island today, the NWS and the National Fire Service said.

“Use caution when handling and disposing of ignition sources,” the NWS warned in a special statement.

A firefighter with the Wethersfield Volunteer Fire Department in Connecticut reportedly died Tuesday after a utility vehicle ran over him while he was battling a brush fire on Lamentation Mountain in the town of Berlin.

In New Braintree, Massachusetts, the Oakham Fire Department also battled a brush fire this week and urged residents to exercise caution when disposing of smoking materials.

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation says a fire that broke out Sunday on the Blue Hills Reservation has burned about two acres and is about 70 percent contained.

Wind gusts could reach speeds of 30 miles per hour in Massachusetts on Thursday.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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