DILLSBORO, IN — The Dillsboro Fire Department and several other agencies were called to the 9400 block of Grelle Road near the Dearborn/Ripley County line for a brush fire that had crossed the road from a nearby property around 3:47 pm Wednesday.
The Milan, Friendship, and Aurora fire departments plus Aurora EMS responded. Brush firefighting trucks and tankers (also known as water tenders because they hold over a thousand gallons of extra water) were brought in to battle a field fire that stretched two to three acres across the road and onto a residential property.
Quick and collaborative action by firefighters and nearby residents brought the fire quickly under control without damage to residences or structures.
Wind gusts of 18 mph may have contributed to the fire’s spread.
The cause is listed as accidental.
A total of 20 firefighters and 10 fire apparatus responded.
Crews were on the scene for an hour putting out hot spots, and the area of Grelle Road where the fire broke out was closed during that time.
Dillsboro Fire Department Public Information Officer Lt. Kevin Turner issued a statement in which he praised those who help quell the flames and made a plea for volunteer firefighters.
“As with any emergency, quick notification of emergency services is paramount, and the citizens in this incident performed admirably. Additionally, the quick response of the volunteer firefighters and EMS helped mitigate the damage to only vegetation,” Turner said. “All fire and rescue agencies are looking for volunteers. If you have an interest in being a member of the fire and EMS service, providing for the safety of your community, contact your local Fire Department or Emergency Medical Service.
“The Dillsboro Volunteer Fire Department is accepting new members. Contact [email protected] for more information and to receive an application. Requirements are persons 18 years of age or older, a valid driver’s license, and no felony or theft convictions still on record. Training is provided by the fire department,” Turner added.
