West Springfield, PA – This afternoon, at approximately 4:15 PM, the Springfield Volunteer Fire Department responded to reports of a brush fire near 13700 Colver Road, between Griffey and Rea Roads. Initial reports suggested about two acres were affected, with the fire actively spreading. Brush Truck 649 responded first, followed by Engines 644 and 643.

Chief 640 arrived on scene in Brush Truck 649 and reported to county officials that around one acre was burning, indicating that the resources already en route should be sufficient. Upon arrival, the crew from Brush Truck 649 quickly deployed an Indian Tank and a leaf blower. The leaf blower was used to clear leaves and create a firebreak, maximizing resources and reducing firefighter fatigue. This strategy also allowed rapid containment, preventing further spread of the fireline.

Crews from Engines 644 and 643 arrived shortly after, supporting the containment efforts with additional wildland firefighting tools to reinforce the fireline. With the fireline established, crews began mop-up operations, using Indian Tanks to extinguish any actively burning areas. Firefighters cut down dead trees which were actively burning to prevent a further spread of fire later on.

Springfield crews remained on scene for nearly two hours. The fire is believed to have originated from careless debris burning. This incident highlights once again that conditions are currently very dry, and outdoor burning is strongly discouraged at this time. Breezy conditions, dry fuel, and low relative humidity create ideal circumstances for rapid fire growth and spread, making even small fires difficult to control.