Wolf Creek Fire District Battles 70-Acre Brush Fire on Martin Road

St. Francois Co., Mo. (KFMO) - The Wolf Creek Fire Protection District responded to a large brush fire on Martin Road that ultimately burned an estimated 70 to 75 acres Friday afternoon.

Fire crews arrived to find heavy fire conditions in wooded areas with strong winds contributing to rapid spread. Initial reports indicated between 10 and 15 acres involved, but the fire quickly grew as crews worked through difficult terrain filled with snags and downed trees.

Additional brush units and manpower were requested as the fire expanded beyond 50 acres. A drone was deployed to assess the fire from above, revealing as much as 60 to 65 acres actively burning at one point.

Firefighters used backpack blowers and hand tools to establish fire lines and protect surrounding areas. Crews remained on scene for more than four hours working to contain the blaze and create secondary containment lines.

In total, the fire burned grass, wooded areas, and hay bales. No buildings were damaged.

Two firefighters were treated at the scene for exhaustion and breathing-related injuries.

While some crews remained on standby for district coverage, they also responded to a separate brush fire call on Possum Hollow Road, which was determined to be a controlled burn.