The Arkansas City Fire/EMS responded to a series of grass fires on Tuesday, including the Chilocco area fire that caused the evacuation of 7 Clans First Council Casino. The first incident Tuesday — with high fire danger in dry conditions with strong wind gusts — was reported at about 2 p.m. in the vicinity of Lord Road and Chestnut Avenue, a few blocks east of the Walnut River. Crews discovered a barn fully involved and a grass fire ignited from flying embers behind 301 N. Country Club Road. The fire extended to a detached garage before being brought under control. Firefighters from Winfield and Udall Fire Departments aided. No injuries were reported, and the cause is under investigation. Estimated damage is valued at $25,000. At approximately 5:30 p.m., crews responded to a reported grass fire near 111th Road and 312th Road, about five miles southeast of Ark City, where approximately 30 acres of grass and wooded areas were burning. Oklahoma departments assisted in containment efforts. Crews spent two and a half hours on the scene before the fire was controlled. The cause is under investigation.
Source: Cowley CourierTraveler
