Wills Point, Whitton and Elmo were among the fire departments to respond to a large grass fire south of Wills Point Sept. 28.
Local fire departments and the office of the Van Zandt County Fire Marshal are once again offering words of caution to those working outside or burning out in the county.
A large grass fire nearly destroyed three homes between FM 47 and CR 3918 Sept. 28.
The incident reportedly occurred while workers were clearing a portion of land and brush when one of the pieces of equipment being used got into some old fencing or metal on the property that sparked a fire that burned several acres.
Several fire departments including Wills Point, Whitton and Elmo sent vehicles to the scene to control the fire and save homes in the area.
No injuries or damage to homes was reported after the incident.
Local fire officials stressed caution when working outside, especially with equipment that may spark a fire that can spread quickly with the current warm and dry conditions lingering over the area.
Additionally, each city in the county has ordinances in place that ban the burning of brush or trash within the city limits.
No burn ban is currently in effect in Van Zandt County, but several tips and guidelines should be followed for those planning to burn in Van Zandt County (outside the local city limits).
Tips and guidelines for those planning to burn any brush or trash include:
-Have a water hose or fire extinguisher within reach.
-You are only allowed by State Law to burn in an approved barrel or cement lined pit for burning trash.
-You can only burn household trash that is made on the premises.
-When burning in a barrel or pit, always use a screen or cover.
-Stay with the burn barrel while it is burning, do not leave it unattended.
It took several local fire departments to contain and put out a large grass fire south of Wills Point. The fire kicked up plenty of thick smoke and charred several acres.
Fire officials moved quickly to put out a fast moving grass fire that threatened several homes between FM-47 and CR 3918 Sept. 28.
