Brush Fires Along I-65 Pose Immediate Threat - Pelham Fire Department Responds Swiftly -

Pelham, AL – Just two days ago, Deputy Chief Chris Carpenter issued a prescient warning on WBRC FOX6 News about the alarming speed at which brush fires can spiral out of control on our highways, endangering lives and property. Today, the Pelham Fire Department found itself confronting a critical situation as three large brush fires erupted within a two-mile stretch of I-65 South. These fires could have posed a serious threat to local businesses were it not for the swift and coordinated actions of our engine companies.

Pelham Fire Department’s No Burn Advisory in Response to Alabama Forestry Commission’s Fire Alert

The situation along Interstate 65, stretching from Exit 246 to Exit 238, has prompted Battalion 90 to initiate a robust response to combat multiple brush fires. As these fires continue to rage, we urge all residents and commuters to exercise extreme caution when driving through the affected areas.

Image: P.P.Loggins (Facebook) taken near Oak Mountain State Park 11/04/23. Local Concern: Citizens capture a small brush fire near Oak Mountain State Park, highlighting the importance of community vigilance.

This sudden outbreak of fires has necessitated the implementation of a burn ban, due to the extremely low humidity levels in the region. Pelham Fire Department issued an official statement on their Facebook page at 1 p.m. today, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and imploring the community to adhere to the ban.

The Pelham Fire Department’s Facebook post from a day ago addressed concerns raised by vigilant citizens who had noticed unusually heavy smoke in the area. The department clarified that the source of the smoke was a fire near the Calera area, with the winds spreading the smoke into Pelham and surrounding areas. “If you encounter a smoke condition that appears to be unusually heavy or you observe signs of fire, do not hesitate to contact the Pelham Fire Department’s dispatch at 205-620-6550.”

These recent events serve as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers posed by dry and windy conditions. Deputy Chief Chris Carpenter’s warning could not have been timelier, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance among residents. Furthermore, this incident illustrates the remarkable dedication and professionalism of the Pelham Fire Department and their swift response to protect our community from the threat of wildfires.

In light of the ongoing burn ban and the perilous fire situation, it is imperative for all residents to comply with the ban and avoid any activities that could potentially ignite further fires. It is crucial not to burn anything, and motorists are strongly advised not to discard cigarettes out of their vehicle windows, as these seemingly small actions can have dire consequences in the current conditions.

The Pelham Fire Department, along with other emergency response agencies, will continue to monitor and manage the ongoing brush fires, prioritizing the safety of our community. Please stay safe, heed the warnings, and support the efforts of our dedicated first responders as they work tirelessly to protect us in these challenging circumstances.