Wildfire Noon Update – 1,422 Acres Destroyed, 13 Dozers, 3 Planes, 10 Fire Depts., 8 AFC Crews
August 15th, 2012 by Joe Burgess
Yesterday’s Lacey and Possum Valley area woods fire destroyed 1,422 acres, according to AFC.
The Arkansas Forestry Commission brought in 13 dozers, 2 drop planes, and a spotter plane. Thirty air-drops were made by the planes. AFC crews responded from Drew, Ashley, Bradley, Lincoln, Jefferson, Cleveland, Calhoun, and Union Counties.
Seven area fire departments also responded, including Lacey-Ladelle, Valley, Clear Creek, Tillar, Monticello, Wilmar, Selma, Dermott, Collins-Cominto, and Johnsville.
The fire reportedly began before noon near Ponderosa Trail. Around 2 p.m., it began to spread and consume more area. Around 3 pm, it reached Wilmar Tram Road and then crossed Red Line road around 6:30.
From that point, it moved toward Jones Loop, where residents were evacuated as a couple of homes were threatened by the fires.
Around 9:15, it crossed Eubanks Road, with firefighters being separated by the blaze as it jumped the roadway between fire crews.
Finaly, nightfall and rising humidity allowed the fire plows to gain the upper hand and bring the fire under control before 11 p.m.
No structures were lost due to the fire.
The cause of the fire is undetermined at this time.
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Newer article: Wild Fire Photos from Lacey & Possum Valley
Older article: Truck For Sale
I am very grateful to the dedicated people who worked so hard, and risked their lives, to fight this massive blaze.
If you have not seen first-hand how hard these people work, the long hours they work without relief, and the dangers they face – many of them volunteers who do it without thought of compensation – it is difficult to fully appreciate the sacrifices these men make to protect and keep us safe.
The fact that no homes were lost is a testament to their courage, dedication and determination.
Thank you.
Everyone needs to support their Rural Volunteer Fire Departments, by joining when they conduct their annual membership drives and host Fund Raisers in your communities. These men and women do not get paid for their service to our communities and need our help to get the funds to continue recruiting members, buy new & replacement equipment i.e. Firefighter Suits, Emergency Air-Packs, Fire hose, nozzles, fire racks, axes, shovels, and etc. Contact your local Rural Volunteer Department today to see how you can help!!!
I’m with you, Sarah…they all did an amazing job.
Conservative…a burn ban would not necessarily have prevented this fire since we don’t know the cause. It could have been a spark from an exhaust or a cigarette, which a burn ban would not have covered
Thanking God for our Fire crews! You guys are awesome!!!