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BARTOW, Fla. (WFLA) — On Sunday, fire rescue teams in Polk County faced a challenging day as they battled over 30 brush fires scattered across the region. The most significant of these blazes consumed more than 400 acres in the River Ranch area, situated near State Road 60, according to a release from Polk County Fire Rescue (PCFR).
In response to the massive fire, authorities had to close State Road 60 temporarily. However, the road was reopened by 9 p.m., allowing traffic to flow once again. The fire also resulted in damage to several camps in the vicinity, though it fortunately left homes and other structures unscathed.
PCFR Chief Shawn Smith highlighted the volatile nature of brush fires, especially when compounded by strong winds. Despite the potential danger, he confirmed that no evacuations were necessary in the River Ranch area. Nevertheless, the situation underscored the importance of vigilance and readiness when dealing with such unpredictable natural events.
Additionally, an unspecified number of camps were burned, but no homes or structures in the surrounding area.
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Credit: Polk County Fire Rescue -
Credit: Polk County Fire Rescue
PCFR Chief Shawn Smith said no evacuations were ordered in the River Ranch area, but stated that brush fires can be unpredictable, especially factoring in high winds.
Chief Smith reiterated the importance of the burn ban blaming the uptick in brush fires on people not adhering to it.
“It seems that brush fires have been a constant issue throughout the day today. I just want to remind everybody that there are serious drought conditions in Polk County,” Smith said. “These illegal recreational fires need to cease.”
Fire departments from Davenport, Haines City, Dundee and Orange County aided in subduing the fires.
No injuries were reported.