(Area Counties) – Firefighters around southwest Iowa were kept busy battle numerous grass and field fires this weekend. Early today (Sunday), Cumberland and Massena crews were called to assist in fighting a large field fire in northern Adams County.

The Montgomery County Emergency Management Agency reported Saturday, area fire departments have responded to numerous grass/field/brush fires Saturday afternoon. Officials said some were controlled burns, others were not. The EMA urged property owners that “If you plan to burn at anytime, please call the Montgomery County Communications Center at 712-623-5107 to report your burn and exact location.

Montgomery County EMA photo

This will allow us to verify the location and responsible party should a fire be reported or grow out of control.” The Montgomery County EMA said also, that “With warm and windy conditions forecasted over the next several days and continued dry fuel loads present everywhere, any fire that starts will quickly spread. Be sure to check any previous burn piles multiple times over the next several days as well.”

The Red Oak Fire Department posted to social media Saturday afternoon, that at around 12:30-p.m., Saturday, Stanton FD, Red Oak FD, and Elliott FD were dispatched to 2513 170th for a reported grass fire – near a barn. Upon arrival, a debris pile fire had spread into a south field/grass area, as well as, within feet of a standing barn. Fire crews made a quick knock down and spent considerable time extinguishing the debris pile fire. No injuries to civilians or firefighters. As of 1:30 p.m Stanton FD and the property owner were extinguishing some hot spots, preparing to terminate fire-ground operations.

Red Oak FD photo

Red Oak FD photo

Red Oak FD photo

And, Neola Fire and Rescue reported on social media, that Saturday morning, they were paged out to a grass fire. With the dryness and wind conditions they quickly called for mutual aid. Fire officials said they wanted to thank the Underwood Fire and Rescue, McClelland Volunteer Fire Department, Minden Fire & Rescue, Crescent Volunteer Fire Department and Lewis Township Fire & Rescue for their quick response and help! Also thank you to the local farmers who were quick to help!!”

Neola FD photo

Neola FD photo