Seeing the flames and plumes of smoke from above is one thing, but seeing the wildfires on the ground is a whole different story for firefighters.
“It’s equally awe-inspiring for us to see those huge clouds of smoke and flames moving through the woods towards the houses. It’s something we don’t battle every day,” said Eamonn Fitzpatrick-Ruth, who works for Evesham Fire. To rescue.
Evesham Fire-Rescue has assisted the New Jersey Forest Fire Service and provided resources and manpower in the fight against the Bethany carries out wildfirethat is burning nearly 1,000 acres near Kettle Run Road.
“The Forest Fire Service operates in the state of New Jersey, so in a dry situation like this they are obviously fighting multiple fires at the same time, so using local resources is really critical to allow them to do what they can do.” they have to do,” said Deputy Chief Scott Freedman.
Evesham Fire-Rescue said they were helping to prevent the flames from reaching homes, including clearing leaves, brush and anything that could further fuel the fire. They also had to check the residents.
“We need to make sure it’s occupied or unoccupied. If it is, we need to quickly inform them of what’s happening, what could happen and what they can do in the meantime,” said Capt. Mike Chambers.
The gunfight is far from easy. Sometimes it can be tiring, especially during one drought.
“We’re hanging in there. It’s definitely been a long and dry season,” Fitzpatrick-Ruth said.
“They have a mission-oriented mentality,” Chambers said. “We are go-getters, so it will be hard to admit that we need a break.”
Although it has been a busy season, firefighters are hoping for some rain soon.
Kerri Corrado
