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CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — The Eastern Prairie Fire Protection District led extinguishing efforts as six departments battled a field fire in Champaign on Saturday.
At approximately 1:45 p.m., Eastern Prairie was dispatched for a field fire near 1902 N Duncan Road. Mutual aid was requested, and the following departments assisted in putting out the fire:
- Cornbelt Fire Protection District
- Thomasboro Fire Department
- Carroll Fire Department
- Savoy Village Fire Department
- Bondville Village Fire Department
According to Assistant Chief John Bell, the fire was in Eastern Prairie’s district. The fire from the field ended up spreading to the grass along Interstate 57, which required Illinois State Police and the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office to assist with traffic control and protection.
Although the smoke did not appear to effect traffic, Bell said southbound traffic on I-57 heading through Champaign may have been slowed down temporarily.
The fire was under control by approximately 3:15 p.m. and there were no reported injuries. Property damage was limited to tall grass, as no structures were damaged. The cause of the fire was a local resident who was burning yard waste, and the wind blew an ember which ignited the tall grass in the field.