Grass fires pose serious threat

From Butler Fire Chief Jim Henry

On Thur., Aug. 23 at approximately 11:57 A.M., the Butler Fire Dept. was dispatched to a field fire at CR 6002 @ CR 1003 N. of Butler. Mutual aid was requested from Adrian Fire Dept. for a brush truck.

On arrival, it was found that a 4-wheeler being used had caught fire, spreading to a field of corn stubble. High winds and low humidity caused rapid spread of the fire to the north. The fire burned approximately 100 bales of hay and several acres of pasture. At one point, the fire jumped State Rt. D east of Passaic.

Additional mutual aid was requested from Amsterdam Fire and Rich Hill Fire.

The last units left the scene at 4:05 P.M.

At approximately 3:17 P.M., a grass fire was reported at 422 S. Main in Butler. A brush unit from Rich Hill and tanker from Butler responded and extinguished this fire, which came dangerously close to structures. The last unit left the scene at approximately 3:38 P.M.

- Chief Jim Henry

On an editorial note, grass fires have become a huge, dangerous problem here in the midwest. As you may have heard, there have been many fires along roadsides with the primary cause being a cigarette tossed out the window.

There are other causes, too, including careless burning of trash, using bbq grills and just plain accidents. However, a few days ago it was reported that bottle rockets were being shot from a moving vehicle on 71 highway that started a string of fires from Adrian to Passaic. Fortunately, our local fire departments moved into action quickly before the fires could pose a threat to any structures. 

Some relief may come in the form of rain starting today through most of the weekend. However, the fire threat is sure to return shortly after.

Please use common sense in this dire situation. Our local firefighters and those who own property along our roadways really appreciate it.