Fire crews battle grass fires

Ministry of Natural Resources fire crews had a busy Wednesday due to what appears to be an early spring.

The MNR, Lappe and Gorham fire departments responded just after 2 p.m. Wednesday to a grass fire on North Branch Road. MNR acting fire management technician Scott Galloway said the fire had spread to about one hectare and was still in the "not under control" phase as of 3 p.m.

Galloway said the cause of the fire is still under investigation but wasn’t aware of any injuries or property damage.

Galloway said people should think twice before burning their lawns as warm weather and high winds have led to drier March conditions than usual.

"If it’s a windy day don’t go outside to light the grass on fire, especially at this time of year the grass roots are dead and readily combustible," said Galloway. "With the high wind it could cause a lot of problems for us."

Another brush fire was reported Tuesday evening in Conmee Township. Conmee Fire
Chief Amie Spencer says the fire was put out quickly, and no residences were in any danger.