A brush fire that started April 23 and rekindled on Saturday was successfully contained both times by several volunteer fire departments.
There were no injuries and no buildings were damaged by the fire, which was limited to about 2 acres near Highway 22 (Comer Road) and Watson Mill Road, Beaverdam Volunteer Fire Department assistant chief Cody Gibbs said in a text message.
The cause of the fire is undetermined, he added, but Oglethorpe County EMA issued a burn ban on Friday that continues until May 4. Lexington and Crawford also issued burn bans this week.
Firefighters from Pleasant Hill, Devil’s Pond, Arnoldsville, Sandy Cross and Georgia Forestry also responded both days, and Wesley Chapel assisted on Thursday night.
The Sheriff’s Office blocked a portion of Comer Road to assist the firefighters and their equipment on Thursday.
Gibbs said Georgia Forestry “cut a break” on Saturday.
“Because of the strong teamwork and fast action, the fire was safely contained and nearby homes were protected,” the Pleasant Hill VFD posted on Facebook on April 24. “Most importantly, all personnel returned safely.”
Gov. Brian Kemp issued a state of emergency on April 22 for 91 Georgia counties due to wildfires caused by “extreme drought conditions,” Kemp said in the release.
Tuesday’s rainfall brought relief to Northeast Georgia, and rain was forecast through the remainder of the week.