BRIDGEPORT, CT (Oct. 10, 2025) – To raise awareness of the state’s new Fire Safe CT Initiative and of Fire Prevention Week, Bridgeport Hospital partnered with the state of Connecticut, city of Bridgeport and the Bridgeport Fire Department yesterday.
The goal of the press conference was to raise awareness about preventing fires and burns. As the state’s only burn center, staff at Bridgeport Hospital’s Burn Center want the community to know how to avoid situations that could lead to serious burn injuries and what to do when an injury occurs.
“Unfortunately, our team sees far too often the devastating impact that burns have – not just on patients, but on their families and communities,” said Anne Diamond, president, Bridgeport Hospital. “That’s why events like this are so important. Prevention truly is the best medicine.”
Fire Safe CT, launched by Governor Ned Lamont in August, is a collaborative state initiative aimed at reducing the risk of fire-related tragedies through public education and local support.
“Through Fire Safe CT, we share timely fire safety messages on social media and maintain a website full of resources that local fire departments can use to educate their communities,” said Lauri Volkert, state fire marshal. “Fire prevention is not just the job of firefighters – it’s a shared responsibility. And with the right information and a little preparation, we can all help prevent the next tragedy.”
Alisa Savetamal, MD, burn program director of the Connecticut Burn Center, shared tips on how to avoid injuries. “Children and older adults are among the most vulnerable to burn injuries – and often the least able to protect themselves. Cooking-related burns are a leading cause of burns, but you can stay safe in your kitchen.”
- Avoid wearing long, loose sleeves near the stove.
- Keep pot handles turned inward and out of children’s reach.
- Be extra careful when using hot oil – splashes can cause serious burns in seconds.
Outdoor firepits and bonfires are also popular this time of year – and another common source of injury. Dr. Savetamal warned that people should always monitor open flames, keep fires a safe distance from structures and make sure children stay well away from the flames.
Other dignitaries joining in the event were Bridgeport Fire Department Chief Lance Edwards, Bridgeport Fire Marshal Joe Carr, Deputy Commissioner Darren Hobbs and State Representative Bill Heffernan.
Bridgeport Hospital, part of Yale New Haven Health, is a non-profit 501-bed acute care hospital with two campuses (plus 42 beds licensed to Yale New Haven Children's Hospital). Its Bridgeport and Milford Campuses serve patients from across the region. The hospital admits more than 23,000 patients and provides nearly 350,000 outpatient treatments annually. The Connecticut Burn Center at Bridgeport Hospital is the only burn center in the state and one of only 64 verified burn centers in the United States. Bridgeport Hospital is committed to providing safe, compassionate and cost efficient care to its patients and the community. www.bridgeporthospital.org
The Connecticut State Fire Marshal’s Office (OSFM), which is part of the Department of Administrative Services, serves as a vital partner in public safety, working to protect lives and property through code enforcement, education, and community engagement. With a strong focus on Community Risk Reduction (CRR), OSFM leads initiatives that are data-informed and locally empowered—supporting youth fire setter intervention programs, streamlining inspection and certification processes, and collaborating with stakeholders across the state. The office plays a central role in developing and updating the state’s fire safety and prevention codes, ensuring they reflect both national standards and Connecticut’s unique needs. Through strategic partnerships, legislative advocacy, and a commitment to transparency and innovation, OSFM continues to modernize its operations and strengthen its connection to the communities it serves.
