Officials hope wildfire serves as reminder to others

KALKASKA COUNTY – Firefighting officials are hoping a recent wildfire serves as an important reminder to others why it’s important to check on local fire conditions and not burn on windy days.

The Fife Lake-Springfield Township Fire Department, along with units of Garfield Township Fire Department Station No. 3, South Boardman Fire & Rescue Station No. 9, Kalkaska Township Fire Department Station No. 7, as well as Michigan Department of Natural Resources units from Kalkaska and Traverse City, were called upon to battle a wildfire on Snyder Road at about 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 21.

The blaze reportedly consumed about 10 acres and placed two structures in immediate danger, before firefighters were able to contain the fire.

“We set up a quick perimeter and protected the structures,” said Scott Tinker, Fire Lake fire chief. “Thank you to all the fire personal involved. Everyone worked great together.”

No injuries were reported as a result of the blaze.

According to officials, the fire started when an area resident was burning debris in a field.

“The wind started to pick up during the fire,” Tinker said. “Burn permits were not being issued that day.

“The warning went out at about the same time the fire was called in.”

The MDNR is continuing its investigation of the blaze.

The fire chief added that residents should be always be careful when burning and check with officials to see whether burning is even being allowed. Fire danger information and burn permits may be obtained at dnr.state.mi.us/burnpermits.

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