Lapeer firefighters responded last night to a fast-moving grass fire in Oregon Township that burned 31 acres and destroyed a barn.
The City of Lapeer Fire and Rescue was dispatched shortly after 6 p.m. yesterday, Wednesday, March 25, to the 5100 block of McDowell Road in Oregon Township for a reported barn fire. The first unit arrived on scene at 6:23 PM, and found a working grass and vegetation fire that had already spread to a barn, which was fully involved. Firefighters initiated suppression efforts and worked to contain the fire as it spread across open land.
By the time the fire was contained around 6:50 PM, it had burned approximately 31 acres and resulted in the total loss of the barn. There were no reported civilian or firefighter injuries. Firefighters remained on scene conducting overhaul and extinguishing hot spots until after 8 p.m.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Lapeer Fire and Rescue was assisted on scene by Elba Township Fire Department, Marathon Fire Authority/Columbiaville Fire Department, and Davison-Richfield Fire Department. Lapeer County EMS was on scene for firefighter rehabilitation, and Lapeer County Central Dispatch coordinated communications.
The department noted in a press release that the incident is a reminder of how quickly fires can spread in grass and open areas, especially when access is limited. Residents are urged to call 9-1-1 immediately if they encounter a fire.
