McKean Township, PA – Around 12:45 PM this afternoon, firefighters from the McKean Hose Company were dispatched to a brush fire near California Road and Millfair Road. Erie County Dispatch advised of receiving multiple calls regarding the brush fire. Chief 600 of McKean responded first, confirming a rapidly spreading fire in the woods and requesting additional support, including brush units from Perry Hi-Way and Franklin Township.

Soon after, McKean’s Engine 405 and Utility 409 arrived, with crews quickly deploying a bumper line to attack the active fire. Additional firefighters entered the woods with wildland rakes to establish a fireline and contain the spread. Crews remained on scene for about thirty minutes afterward, conducting mop-up operations to ensure all hotspots were extinguished. Franklin Township was placed back in service prior to arriving on scene.

The cause of the fire is currently unknown. Today’s incident underscores the heightened fire threat due to the unusually dry conditions this season. Despite recent light rain, the area remains highly susceptible to fire, with dry fuel, low relative humidity, and breezy conditions creating ideal circumstances for rapid fire growth and spread. Even small fires can become difficult to control under these conditions. To help prevent further risk, please take extra caution outdoors and avoid burning activities during this dry spell.