Category: Westport

“With the change in seasons, we often see an increase in home improvement projects and decluttering efforts,” said Fire Marshal Dunn. “However, improper storage of flammable materials, overloaded electrical outlets, and spontaneous combustion of oily rags can all lead to devastating fires.”

The recent structure fires have been linked to common hazards, including improperly discarded chemicals, electrical malfunctions, and combustible materials being stored too close to heat sources. Fortunately, no serious injuries have been reported, but the fires have caused significant property damage.

Fire Prevention Tips

The Westport Fire Department urges residents to follow these safety measures to prevent garage and structure fires:

• Store flammable liquids properly: Keep gasoline, paint thinners, and other combustibles in approved containers, away from heat sources.
• Dispose of oily rags safely: Never pile up rags used with oil-based stains or paints. Store them in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid or lay them out to dry in a well-ventilated area.
• Check electrical wiring: Avoid using extension cords as permanent wiring and do not overload outlets. Inspect cords for fraying or damage.
• Keep combustibles away from heat sources: Do not store cardboard boxes, wood, or paper products near water heaters, furnaces, or other heat-producing appliances.
• Ensure proper ventilation: When using flammable chemicals or conducting renovation work, maintain good airflow to reduce fire risks.

Additionally, the Connecticut State Fire Marshal recommends the importance of having working smoke detectors and multiple exit plans to enhance home safety. While fire-related fatalities have declined compared to last year, continued vigilance is essential.

Proper Disposal of Hazardous Materials

Proper disposal of hazardous materials is critical in preventing fires. Residents are encouraged to participate in Westport’s Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Day to safely dispose of items such as oil-based paints, solvents, and chemicals. Improper disposal can increase fire hazards and lead to environmental contamination.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day Details:

• Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025
• Time: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
• Location: Greens Farms Railroad Station, Parking Lot #1, New Creek Road, Westport, CT

This event is free of charge for residents of Westport, Norwalk, New Canaan, Darien, Stamford, and Greenwich. For more details, visit the Westport Household Hazardous Waste Collection page.

“Taking a few simple precautions can go a long way in preventing fires,” Dunn added. “If you have concerns about fire safety in your home, our department is always available to provide guidance.”

For more fire safety information, visit westportct.gov/fire or contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at (203) 341-5020.

Westport, CT – The Westport Downtown Association (WDA) and Westport Youth Commission (WYC) have partnered to introduce a new student discount program, offering savings to students and educators at 25 local businesses, including Rhone, Original Pancake House, Vineyard Vines, Pizza Lyfe, Theory, Glowbar, Joe’s Pizza, Basso, The Bridge, and many others. Full details are available at http://www.westportdowntown.com/student-discount-program.

WDA President Maxx Crowley said, “The Downtown Association is excited to launch another program to attract shoppers to Westport and we couldn’t be prouder to partner with the Youth Commission in targeting students and educators with a program that highlights great values from our great merchants.”

WYC member Jake Shufro (SHS ’26) approached the WDA with a novel collaborative solution to revive the discount program and foster sustainability as a Commission project.  Shufro said, “I didn’t want past experiences to shut the door as a win-win program like this needs to be in our town. After working with the WDA, I knew they held the key to making this work.”

Kevin Godburn, Director of Youth Services, praised the collaboration saying, “This has been a great opportunity for our student leaders to work with the local business community and encourage peers to shop and socialize in town. With each program, the students learn a lot about what works and what doesn’t. We’re excited about this current version and look forward to its long-term success.”

High school and college students (including community college) can access discounts by presenting a valid student ID or Schoology account. Educators qualify with active credentials. Simply show your ID or credentials at checkout to save.

Brian Spurr, WDA Community Director, said, “The Westport Student Discount Program is designed to welcome students into the heart of downtown while helping them stretch their budgets and to show appreciation for local educators.” Andrew Colabella, RTM District 4 Representative, adds, “ It’s important to revive this program, incentivizing students to work play live in Westport, but also support small local businesses, giving growth to our economy”

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About the Westport Youth Commission: The Westport Youth Commission, appointed by the First Selectwoman and staffed by the Department of Human Services, is comprised of 15 Westport high school students and an equal number of Westport adults. Responsible for promoting the positive development of all youth in their families, schools, and community, and among their peers. The Commission assesses the needs and interests of young people in Westport, encouraging programs, and developing resources to respond to these needs. It serves as a catalyst for programs and activities that promote the positive development of youth in their families, schools, community and among their peers.

Saturday, April 5, 2025 RAIN or SHINE

9am – 2pm

Greens Farms Railroad Station, Parking Lot #1, New Creek Road, Westport CT

(Located between I-95 and Metro-North Railroad tracks)

Westport, CT –The Department of Public Works is holding its annual Household Hazardous Waste Day on Saturday, April 5 from 9 am to 2 pm at Greens Farms Railroad Station, Parking Lot #1, New Creek Road, Westport.

Household Hazardous Waste Day is a NO CHARGE regional program for residents of Westport, Norwalk, New Canaan, Darien, Stamford, and Greenwich to safely dispose of their household hazardous wastes. Products such as cleaners, gasoline and pesticides can pollute the environment and jeopardize public health when they are disposed of improperly.

Residents of participating towns may safely dispose of the following types of hazardous waste: gasoline, kerosene, spray paint, paint strippers, paint thinners, solvents, paints, stains, turpentine, varnishes, wood preservatives, degreasers, fertilizers, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, bleach, charcoal lighter, cleaning chemicals, drain cleaners, mercury thermometers, moth balls, pet flea shampoos, photo chemicals, rug shampoos, spot removers, art supplies & paints.

Before bringing household hazardous material to the collection site:

• Make sure items are clearly labeled and NEVER MIX CHEMICALS.  Incompatible products may react, ignite, or explode, and mixed waste may become non-recyclable. 
• Keep products in original labeled container. 
• Place leaky containers in clear plastic bags. 
• Tighten lids of all containers and pack items in sturdy cardboard boxes lined with paper. 
• Put boxes in the trunk or in the back of the vehicle away from passengers. 
• Keep your windows open and drive directly to the collection site. 
• Leave pets and children home when bringing hazardous materials for collection. 
• Residents must remain in their vehicles during collection.
• Do not smoke or eat while handling hazardous materials.

REMINDER:  Westport residents may recycle antifreeze, motor oil, batteries of any type, light bulbs, and electronics at the Westport Transfer Station, 300 Sherwood Island Connector, Monday-Friday 7:00 am – 2:30 pm, Saturday 7:00 am – 12:00 pm.

The following items are NOT acceptable:  AMMUNITION, FLARES, and COMMERCIAL HAZARDOUS WASTE.

If you have any questions, contact the Westport Public Works Department at 203-341-1793.

Firefighters arrived to Guilder Lane in Westport to an exterior fire out on arrival. They are currently checking for any possible extensions at this time.

The Westport Police Department, Stop & Shop Store, and Westport Sunrise Rotary will be hosting a Food Drive. All donations will directly support Homes with Hope and Westport Human Services’ Food Pantries. Westport Human Services collaborates with Homes with Hope and the Westport Woman’s Club to offer support for residents dealing with food insecurity. The Gillespie Center provides food services to its resident clients, those at risk of homelessness, and those in need in the community.

Westport-based Homes with Hope is a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness in Fairfield County. The agency provides emergency shelter for men and women, supportive housing for individuals and families, a community kitchen and food pantry, youth development, and mentoring programs as tools to achieve and maintain an independent life.

Westport police officers and volunteers will accept non-perishable food items, as well as cash donations, in front of the Stop & Shop store located at 1790 Post Road East, Westport, CT, on Saturday, February 8, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

We ask for your support and generosity to help make this food drive a success.

Suggested Non-Perishable Food Donations:

• Breakfast Bars, Baking Items, BBQ Sauce, Macaroni & Cheese (just add water)
• Canned Vegetables, Canned Fruit, Coffee, Canned Meats, Canned Soup & Stew
• Cup of Noodles Soup & Ramen Noodles, Cereal, Gluten-Free Foods (pasta, soups, cereals)
• Granola & Protein Bars, Grated Parmesan Cheese, Hamburger or Tuna Helper
• Hearty Soups, Instant Mashed Potatoes, Ketchup, Mayonnaise, Mustard
• Oatmeal, Oil, Pancake Mix (just add water) & Syrup, Pasta & Sauce
• Peanut Butter & Jelly, Rice, Spices, Salad Dressing, Shelf-Stable Milk (oat, almond, cow)
• Miscellaneous Snacks
  🚫 No Glass Jars Please!

Suggested Personal Care/Household Donations:

• Body Wash, Clorox Wipes, Deodorant, Dish Soap, Laundry Detergent
• Toilet Paper, Paper Towels, Razors, Shampoo, Toothpaste

If you would like to volunteer or have a large pick-up, please contact Anna Rycenga at 203.763.9656.

For more information about Homes with Hope or Westport Human Services, please visit:
🌐 www.hwhct.org or Westport Human Services

Homes with Hope maintains an IRS 501(c)(3) status, and all contributions are tax-deductible.

We thank you in advance for your support, and we appreciate all of our generous donors, Stop & Shop, and look forward to seeing you at the event!

Westport Police responded to the Exxon gas station at 485 Post Road East on January 20, 2025, at approximately 3:44 PM for a stolen vehicle report. The complainant was pumping gas on the passenger side of their black 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS when a young Black male entered the driver’s seat of the vehicle. The suspect exited a car on Post Road East near the gas station before entering the victim’s vehicle without their knowledge. When the complainant tried to intervene by opening the driver’s door, the suspect drove off, causing the complainant to fall to the ground and sustain minor injuries.

The suspect fled the scene in the stolen vehicle along with a second vehicle, both heading north on Compo Road North. The complainant declined medical treatment for their injuries. Westport Police are actively investigating the incident and are attempting to locate the stolen vehicle. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Westport Police Department at (203) 341-6000.

On October 20, 2024, Westport Police began investigating a complaint about fraudulent checks totaling more than $5,600 being deposited from a business account. Using search warrants and ATM surveillance, Marvin Morales-Pablo, 19, of Bridgeport, CT, was identified as a suspect. An arrest warrant was issued, and Mr. Morales-Pablo was apprehended at his residence on January 8, 2025. He was transported to the Westport Police Department, charged with Larceny 3rd and Identity Theft 3rd, and held on a $100,000 court-set bond. Unable to post bond, he was transferred to Stamford Superior Court for arraignment on January 9, 2025.

Early this morning, Westport firefighters responded to a serious motor vehicle accident on I-95 near Exit 18. Upon receiving the call, dispatch informed responding units that police on the scene reported one occupant still trapped inside the vehicle.

The initial dispatch included Engine 5, Engine 4, Rescue 3, and the Shift Commander. Upon arrival, Engine 5 reported a single vehicle had veered off the roadway, sustaining significant damage. Firefighters confirmed one individual was trapped inside the wreckage.

Crews quickly stabilized the vehicle and utilized battery-operated rescue tools to remove the roof, allowing for the rapid extrication of the occupant in less than 10 minutes. Westport EMS provided immediate medical care on-site before transporting the patient to the hospital.

As a safety measure, firefighters deployed a protective hose line during the operation. Meanwhile, Connecticut State Police (CSP) and Westport Police Department (WPD) remained on the scene to investigate the crash and manage traffic control.

The last fire department unit cleared the scene at 5:13 a.m. No additional details about the occupant’s condition were available at the time of this report.