Wildfire Burns Up to 700 Acres, on 278 West – Video
September 23rd, 2013 by Joe BurgessA woods fire that was reported to authorities around 3 pm, kept firefighters battling the blazes until well after midnight, when it was declared “controlled” around 1:30 am.
An estimated 600-700 acres was destroyed by the fires, when reportedly claimed 4 deer camps, but no homes.
South Allis Road was evacuated, and Wilmar residents were told to prepare to leave, in case the fires turned to the west.
The Arkansas Forestry Commission took the lead directing at least 13 fire plow dozers and 2 airplanes.
Firefighters from all surrounding counties responded, or were staged in stand-by mode, throughout the day and evening.
HWY 278 was closed from I-530 to Wilmar for most of the day, as well.
The blaze was “90% contained” around 10 pm; but quickly gained strength, when stronger winds fanned its flames back toward a HWY 278 hayfield.
AFC declared the fire controlled around 1:30 am, bringing the long day to an end for everyone involved, except for the AFC crews who remained working hot-spots on into the morning.
Sincere apperciation goes out to all neighboring counriteds for their assistance and many hours of hard work, Thursday.
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A GREAT BIG “THANK YOU” TO ALL THE PEOPLE WORKING THE FIRES, YESTERDAY!! YOU ARE GREATLY APPRECIATED!! GOD BLESS!! ALSO, TO ALL THE PEOPLE HELPING TO PROVIDE FOOD, DRINKS, ETC.. THANKS!!
Thanks to all the firefighters who responded to this fire. Because of the dry conditions and the wind it could have been much worse that it was. Most of the firefighters fighting this fire were volunteer – they do not get paid for risking their lives to put out a fire whether it be wildland or structural. What they need more than money in their pocket is equipment for their fire department. If you are not a member of your area fire department, become one. It usually costs around $50.00 per year. If your fire department is having a fund raiser, go to it and meet your firefighters and purchase a plate of food or a T-shirt. These guys are your neighbors. Remember that the life they save may be yours. Support them.
I would like to say a huge thank you to all the emergency personnel for all of their hardwork in containing this fire. This was an extremely scary situation for everyone who lives around this fire. These guys did an excellent job of getting it contained with no injuries or deaths! Thanks again to everyone who responded & worked it!
So thankful for our volunteer firefighters.
From a mom of a daughter living in the area, a big thank you to everyone that was involved with fighting this fire. God bless all of you.
Thank you to the firefighters! I’m roud of them and glad everyone is okay.
Thank you to everyone who responded!!! My home and my neighbor’s homes were saved because of you. When all you can do is stand, watch and pray it’s a helpless feeling. These men tried to keep us informed after we were told to evacuate. They gave it 110% working to save our homes. Some of these people worked throughout the night to make sure it was contained. If not for them several of us on South Allis would not have a home to go to this evening. Thank you again from the bottom of our hearts !!!
I would like to thank all of the volunteer fire fighters, law enforcement personnel, county employees, food and water providers, and everyone else who helped us with the fire near Wilmer. I would also like to thank my own foresters and rangers. Everyone contributed so much to help contain this wildfire and reduce the impact it could have had on the community.