By Hannah Collins
HANNAH COLLINS | The Advertiser
This past week, fire departments across Washington and Holmes Counties collaborated to combat several fires following five consecutive days of high fire risk warnings.
Both counties began issuing warnings about the elevated fire risk on February 28, utilizing social media to share tips on preventing brush fires. Weather conditions during this period were critical, characterized by low humidity and high winds. Fire agencies advised residents to refrain from outdoor burning, avoid parking on dry grass, and exercise caution with open flames and sparks. Residents were encouraged to remain vigilant, report any signs of fire, and take precautions to protect their communities.
According to a press release from Bonifay Fire-Rescue, they were alerted on March 1 to a large brush fire on Bear Bay Road in Washington County. Bonifay Fire responded with Tanker 1 and assisted multiple departments on the scene with water supply. This operation involved one residential structure that was endangered. Other responding departments included Chipley Fire-Rescue, Hinsons Crossroads, Ebro, Vernon, Washington County, Orange Hill, Ponce de Leon, Pittman, and Gritney Fire Departments. Additionally, multiple tractors from the Florida Division of Forestry were on site. Later that same afternoon, Bonifay Fire-Rescue was alerted again, this time to a brush fire on Ander Brown Lane. Assistant Chief Landis Messer arrived and established Incident Command. Assistance from several nearby departments contributed to a successful operation, including the protection of a nearby residential structure and a barn. “Chipley Fire-Rescue was in our city at the time of the original call and immediately responded, providing critical support,” stated Bonifay Fire-Rescue in their release.
Washington County Fire Services (WCFS) responded to a total of six calls, two of which were assisted by Bonifay Fire-Rescue. WCFS first reported an early morning brush fire at Claremont Boulevard and Byrd Road, followed almost immediately by a fire on Foxworth Road. According to their statement on March 2, all brush fires in Washington County had been fully extinguished.
Both counties’ fire agencies worked together to ensure safety within their regions.
Staff Report 
GARETT VALCOURT 