The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

FREEPORT - The brush fire season here normally begins in May, and fire officials are concerned that persons in search of scrap metal could be causing many of the premature brush fires on the island.

Police Fire Chief Floyd Bastian reported that the fire department has responded to 190 reported brush fires.

"So far, we attended 190 for the year - the season for brush fires is really premature this year," he said.

"The brush fire season normally starts at the end of May, and runs through to September/October, so it is unprecedented this year."

There have been many large brush fires in the Lucaya area, heading east toward the bridge.

In West Grand Bahama this week, a large raging bush fire destroyed two homes. Residents in the area described the incident as a frightening ordeal.

Recounting the ordeal to a ZNS reporter, Kevin Morris said the fire burned for two days and thick plumes of smoke overtook the area.

He said residents tried to assist in extinguishing the fire, but two homes were lost in the end.

"It was difficult; neighbours tried to extinguish the fire but it was vast and spread because of the winds," Mr Morris said.

Mr Morris commended the response of the fire department. He said the wind intensified the blaze and caused the fire to spread quickly.

Mr Bastian said they believe that persons working in the business of scrap metal are deliberately lighting some of the fires.

"We are concerned that these persons are starting fires... to burn down the thick brush in search for scrap metal, without regard for people's home and property," he said.

Mr Bastian is appealing to those individuals, who are involved, to stop.

"We don't want any loss of lives. We have had some homes lost because of bush fires and persons found starting bush fires will be prosecuted," he warned.

The fire chief said strong winds have caused the fires to spread out of control.

Mr Bastian said residents could take precaution to minimize or eliminate property damage from brush fire.

He said homeowners should remove thick brush near their property.

"They should ensure that there is a clearing around their yard," he explained.

Residents, he said, should also keep their property free of debris and any ignitable material," said Mr Bastian.

Mr Bastian encouraged residents to water their grass regularly so it is not dry and easily ignited by embers from nearby bush fires.

He said residents should also close their windows if smoke is in the area. If a fire is nearby, he said wetting the roof is a good idea.

Mr Bastian urged residents to call the fire department if a fire threatens their home.