Glynn County Volunteer Firefighter Andy Chitty extinguishes a hot spot along Franklin Street Extension, as Georgia Forestry units work to contain the fire within breaks.   (Photo by: Aimee Combs)

MCINTOSH COUNTY, GA – Reminiscent on a fire six years ago, in May 2001, Glynn firefighters were called upon to assist with a wildfire in neighboring McIntosh County.

The fire, believed to have been under control the previous day, somehow got outside the fire breaks and was threatening nearby residences as it was being pushed by steady winds.

The call for assistance was received about 3:00 pm asking for assistance controlling a wild land fire.  Responding personnel were asked to report to the command post established at the American Legion Hall on Blount’s Crossing Road and wait for an assignment.

In addition to already weary McIntosh and Darien firefighters, firefighters from many surrounding jurisdictions including Glynn County and Brunswick were present along with Georgia Forestry units providing both ground and air support.

Glynn County responded with a engine/tanker and volunteers for manpower.  Upon arrival, Glynn Counties engine along with deputy chief were sent to an area off hwy 99 to protect some exposures.  A group of volunteers were assigned to relieve a group of firefighters from Eulonia along Franklin Street Extension.  The primary assignment is to prevent the fire from jumping the road and spreading into an unburned area.

While fire suppression efforts were under way, nearby residences were being evacuated by the Sheriff’s office as a precaution.

While a few structures sustained some minor damage, property loss was kept at a minimum due to the fast actions of the local firefighters and the fact that the area of the fire was the same area burned as in 2001.