Brush fires cause evacuations and road closures in Cochise County

Cochise County residents had to evacuate their homes on Sunday, April 4, as two brush fires swept through the area, closing several roads and endangering properties.

The first fire ignited on Highway 191 in the Elfrida area around 11:40 a.m. and the second fire erupted in the 9000 block of South Williams Road in Hereford around 1:06 p.m.

Photo byJames FitzgeraldonUnsplash

The Cochise County Sheriff’s Office said the fires forced people to leave the area of Fouhy Road, Copper Glance, North of Waters and South of Hereford Road. Hereford Road was shut down east of Palominas Road and south to Highway 92 along with Palominas Road south to Highway 92. The fire moved north east of the area and threatened some homes and buildings.

Firefighters from multiple departments battled the flames. The cause of the fires and the extent of the damage are still being investigated. No injuries have been reported so far.

The sheriff’s office urged residents to stay away from the area until further notice and to follow the instructions of emergency personnel.

We wish all the affected residents a safe and speedy recovery and hope that they can return to their homes soon.

Brush fires are common in Arizona, especially during dry and windy conditions. Residents are advised to take precautions to prevent and prepare for brush fires, such as:

• Checking for local burn bans or restrictions before conducting any open burning.
• Keeping fire a minimum of 75 feet from all buildings.
• Clearing leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves, porches and decks.
• Removing flammable materials (firewood stacks, propane tanks) within 30 feet of your home’s foundation and outbuildings, including garages and sheds.
• Developing an emergency evacuation plan and practicing it with everyone in your home.

For more information on how to protect yourself and your property from brush fires, visit www.firewise.org or www.smokeybear.com.