Chesapeake Firefighters Fight Multiple Brush Fires

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High winds, low fuel moisture, lower than average humidity, and non-compliance with burn laws contributed to weekend wildfires in the Chesapeake-area of Virginia.

On February 19, 2011 at 1100 hours, Chesapeake Firefighters responded to a six-acre brush fire in the 1000 block of Benefit Road.  The fire started when a resident violated Virginia's 4 P.M. Burn Law, which limits residents to open air burning between the hours of 4 p.m. and midnight, according to a Chesapeake Fire Department news release.  The resident also left the fire unattended.  It consumed two sheds before Chesapeake firefighters, along with two units from Moyock, brought it under control at 1600 hours.

A second extensive brush fire began at 1530 hours off of Forest Drive.  It spread from the brush area to a garage and trailer, which only received limited damage, according to the news release.  Chesapeake firefighters brought it under control by 2030 without injury.  The cause of this fire is under investigation.

Chespeake firefighters from the Bowers Hill Station were also called upon to assist Portsmouth with a moderate brush fire at the city line, according to the Chesapeake Fire Department news release.  Firefighters battled the fire from 1930 to 2130 hours, with injury.  The cause of this fire remains undetermined.

According to the Chesapeake Fire Department, the 4 P.M. Burn law was adopted in the 1940's to help reduce the number of wildfires that occur during the spring.  During this time of year, Virginia has traditionally had an increased number of fires because of elevated winds, low relative humidity, and dry fuels on the forest floors.  The Statewide 4 P.M. Burn Law is now in effect and runs through April 30th.  For more information, click here.  



Author:Karen Batista - Fire Department Network News