SFR and Goose Valley Fire respond to grass fire

City of Sheridan Fire-Rescue (SFR) Division Chief of Operations Chad Brutlag reports that SFR and Goose Valley Fire responded to a report of a grass fire near the end of Yellowtail Dr. in Northwest Sheridan at 12:34 p.m. on Tuesday, July 2. 

SFR Engine 2 arrived on scene at 12:44 p.m. finding an approximate 15 acre fire burning in mostly grass and some brush. The landowner was attempting to slow the fire down with a skid steer loader, but the wind gusts of 20+ miles per hour were fanning the fire and perpetuating rapid growth.

Photo courtesy of Sheridan Fire-Rescue

SFR Brush 1 arrived on scene and the crew quickly initiated a direct fire attack starting at the head of the fire and working along the Southwest flank. Goose Valley units arrived on scene and were assigned to the Northeast flank. The head was cut off and crews continued to work both flanks to contain the fire. Once the fire was contained around 1:30 p.m., crews transitioned to mop up any remaining hotspots 10 ft. into the black around the entire perimeter. Fire crews were on scene until approximately 2 p.m., at which time the property was released back to the landowner.

Photo courtesy of Sheridan Fire-Rescue

The Chief reports this fire originated from metal cutting/welding operations during the installation of fence corner posts. Hot slag blew off the protective blanket into the nearby grass. The wind, fuel, and topography resulted in a total of 25 acres burned. No civilians, livestock, or emergency personnel were injured during this fire and there was no damage to any structures.

SFR is encouraging everyone to maintain an elevated awareness regarding the risk of Wildland Urban Interface fires despite the recent moisture the Sheridan area has received or how green the vegetation appears. Beneath the top, green layer of grass or brush is an accumulation of dried combustible material that is ready to burn and can easily ignite.