HAGERSTOWN – A wildfire that burned about 15 to 20 acres of mountainside near Burnside Bridge Road was successfully contained, according to the Washington County Division of Emergency Services.
The fire, which was wind driven and presented access challenges, required a multi-agency response to bring it under control. Firefighters initially accessed the fire from Burnside Bridge Road, later gaining additional access from Horizon Lane on the opposite side of the ridge.
Due to shifting wind conditions, crews faced difficulties staying ahead of the fire as it spread. At the peak of operations, 108 firefighters were on the scene, fire officials said, including units from Berkeley and Jefferson counties in West Virginia and Frederick and Washington counties in Maryland.
The primary responding fire company was Sharpsburg Volunteer Fire Company. Washington County Division of Emergency Services then initiated a recall of personnel to assist in the response.
Maryland Forestry crews have been on-site throughout the incident and maintained an overnight presence to monitor for hotspots and address any remaining burning trees.The Washington County Division of Emergency Services officials extended sincere gratitude to all responding crews for their dedication and hard work in containing the fire and protecting the community.Authorities urge residents to remain cautious and report any signs of rekindling.
