An investigation has found that a roughly 200-acre grass fire on Friday was an accident caused by an old, unattended campfire, according to Douglas County.
No one was injured and no structures were lost in the fire, according to county news releases.
But first responders had to work through “near hurricane-force wind gusts” on the massive fire, near North 1600 and East 400 roads, and others around the county — Douglas County dispatch 43 grassfire-related calls since 6 a.m. Friday, according to Monday’s update.
Douglas County Consolidated Fire District No. 1 is encouraging people to be cautious with campfires.
“It’s important to stir the ashes with water until no smoke or heat persists. Your campfire should be cold to the touch before you leave,” Fire Chief John Mathis said in the release. “Everyone plays a valuable role in protecting property and lives by preventing fires.”
The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a red flag warning Monday and from 11 a.m. through 10 p.m. Tuesday, March 18, because of dangerous fire conditions driven by high winds and dry weather. Outdoor burning is currently prohibited in the county’s unincorporated areas, according to the release.
“The combination of high winds and low humidity create extreme fire danger,” Mathis said in the release. “Fires can start quickly, spread rapidly and burn intensely. Check old burn sites, extinguish embers and call 911 if you see smoke.”
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Nathan Kramer / Lawrence Times
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