Girard Township, PA – Overnight, around midnight, A.F. Dobler Hose & Ladder Co. was dispatched to a reported brush fire near 9160 Tannery Road. Erie County 911 received multiple calls, with one caller reporting explosions and another noting that the fire was spreading toward their home. Soon after, Fairview Fire and Rescue and Springfield Vol. Fire Dept. crews were dispatched to assist Girard. Upon arrival, 5401 reported heavy fire involvement and requested an additional tanker truck.

Chief 540 arrived shortly afterward and immediately requested two more brush trucks and another engine. Lake City Fire Company was deployed for an engine, and Cranesville Volunteer Fire Department and Mckean Hose Company provided additional brush trucks. On scene, crews began pulling handlines and worked to establish firelines on the east and south sides of the blaze. Strong winds and challenging terrain complicated the response efforts.

Crews confirmed that two structures had been destroyed and were already on the ground upon their arrival. Two vehicles were also found burning in the woods. The fire had spread across multiple acres of leaves and brush, requiring hours of work to contain, establish firelines, and complete mop-up operations across the affected area.

Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Department (for a tanker) along with Edinboro Volunteer Fire Department (for a brush truck and UTV) were also on scene.

No further details are available at this time, and the cause of the fire remains undetermined. The fire marshal has been notified.

Remember: there is a heightened fire threat due to the unusually dry conditions this season. 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.