The Greeneville Fire Department responded to put out two roadside fires on Monday.
The hot weather and lack of rain have left conditions extremely dry. Just after 12:00 noon, the Greeneville Fire Department was dispatched to a small brush fire along the side of the road on Summer Street near the Greene County EMS headquarters.
Just after 2:00 PM, a larger fire was reported on the shoulder of West Andrew Johnson Highway near the Hal Henard Road intersection.
Both fires were quickly extinguished. Traffic was slowed on 11-E while firefighters were on the scene. The Greeneville Police Department responded for traffic control.
Greene County has seen no significant measurable rain in two weeks, and the forecast predicts only occasional scattered showers over the next few days. As a result, the dry conditions are expected to persist.
In light of the dry conditions, remember these important fire safety tips:
- Avoid Outdoor Burning: Refrain from burning leaves, brush, or other debris in extremely dry or windy conditions. Even small fires can quickly spread in dry conditions.
- Proper Disposal of Cigarettes: Do not throw cigarette butts out of car windows or onto the ground.
- Use Caution with Equipment: Chainsaws, mowers, and other equipment can spark fires. Ensure your equipment is in good working order and avoid using it near dry grass. Some machinery is equipped with spark arrestors.
- Create Defensible Space: If you live in a fire-prone area, clear a defensible space around your home by removing dead plants, leaves, and other flammable materials.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with local fire weather forecasts and heed any fire warnings or bans issued by authorities, and the weather forecasts on WGRV-WIKQ-WSMG.
