North Metro Grass Fire

Photo courtesy of North Metro Fire Rescue District

At 15:54 on October 14th, 2019 North Metro Fire Rescue District responded to a large grass fire in The Field Open Space near E. 1oth Ave. and Main St Firefighters utilized wildland firefighting techniques and equipment to contain the fire before it reached homes on the east side of the open space. Dark smoke could be seen for miles as firefighters arrived to a field full of dead grass on fire and rapidly spreading east. Crews utilized a wildland firefighting technique called “burn out” to purposefully burn a border on the east edge to create a buffer zone between the field and nearby homes. Despite winds picking up and flames rising over 10 feet high, the perimeter held and firefighters were able to extinguish the fire in less than 30 minutes. Broomfield Police Department assisted as well by keeping residents and drivers at a safe distance from the crews working. Upon investigation, three juvenile persons of interest were questioned by North Metro’s fire investigator and Broomfield Police. The police department has taken over the investigation. North Metro Fire wants to remind the community that despite recent snow, the area is still at risk for grass fires. As vegetation dries out and dies in the fall months, it makes a great fuel source that easily ignite from incidental sparks. Regardless of whether there’s a residential structure fire or grass fire, homeowners can take steps to help protect their house from fire by clearing debris, such as leaves, branches, tall grasses and combustible materials from around their house. Additional information provided by Sara Farris Public Information Officer, North Metro Fire Rescue District.

Units on Scene:

North Metro: Battalion 61, Engine 64, Engine 67, Brush 67 & Engine 61

Additional Units: Engine 66, Brush 66, Medic 61, Medic 64 & Engine 65

Westminster Fire Department: Engine 4, Engine 5 (Cancelled) & Brush 6

Thornton Fire Department: Brush 74 (Cancelled) & Brush 76 (Cancelled)