The red flag alert that was in effect for Kanawha County expired around 5:30 p.m. Wednesday.
The National Weather Service issued the warning because of low humidity and high wind.
"Wind is shifting different directions, and that can trap you," said Gary Morris of the Pinch Volunteer Fire Department, referring to the danger firefighters face when combating brush fires.
Every spring and fall, crews prepare for brush fire season. Firefighters in Pinch said red flag alerts are rare. That means no burning, until weather conditions are more favorable.
Morris took our crews to the top of a hill in Pinch, he said fire travels uphill. "That would drive a fire, if it started down on the bottom, if somebody was burning trash or something. If a fire started up here, that would endanger these houses immediately," said Morris.
Clendenin and Pinch Fire Departments responded to a brush fire Tuesday night. Robert Fields called 911 to report it. He said the crews responded within minutes. "They did a great job. They were out here quick and responded fast. Great job, I'm proud of them," said Fields.
When it comes to responding to a fire, Morris said working with their mutual aid partners, Clendenin and Frame Fire Departments, is critical. "They think of us a part of them and we think of them as part of us. So it is extremely important that all three fire departments work together," said Morris.
During brush fire season, controlled burns are permitted during the designated burning hours. Burning trash is prohibited.
If you notice any brush fires in your community, you are asked to immediately call 911.
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