BUTLER COUNTY—The Labor Day weekend was rough for volunteer firefighters in Butler County.
Crews spent Sunday afternoon at a grass fire that spread into a large section of densely packed cedars and hedge, according to a social media report from the Towanda Fire and Rescue.
The weather didn't cooperate either. The wind shifted and picked up more than forecasted. The fire rekindled and spread into a hay meadow Monday. The temperature outside was 107 Monday afternoon. A couple of firefighters had to go to the Emergency Room for treatment for heat exhaustion, but were both released.
The Towanda Fire Department sent a huge thanks and appreciation to mutual aid partners for grass rigs, pumpers, and water tankers: El Dorado, Benton, Potwin, Augusta, Andover, and Whitewater Fire Departments.
The Department Auxiliary set up rehab stations with water and snack both days and canteens set up at our station for food when we returned to base. "They are the support we need and appreciate. Thank you to Jimmy Johns in El Dorado for donating sandwiches for our people tonight."