North Carolina: firefighters and fire trucks burned

On a 65-acre fire in Jackson County, North Carolina, three firefighters were injured and three fire trucks were destroyed or damaged in the Wilmont community on Bradley Branch Road. Two of the firefighters sustained minor burns and were treated at the scene. A third firefighter suffered smoke inhalation and was airlifted to Memorial Mission Hospital for treatment, according to state forest ranger Kerry Lathrop.

Two vehicles burned in the fire, including a North Carolina Forest Service vehicle and one driven by the chief of the Qualla Fire Department. A third vehicle belonging to the Qualla FD was heavily damaged. One home on Bradley Branch Road also burned.

Residents in the area were forced to evacuate on Wednesday, but heavy rain moved into the area this morning, making the job of mopup much easier for the firefighters.

Here is a 20-second video shot by the Jackson County Emergency Manager, Todd Dillard.

UPDATE: April 10, 2010
The North Carolina Forest Service has issued an update about this incident.

Typos, let us know HERE, and specify which article. Please read the commenting rules before you post a comment.

Author: Bill Gabbert

After working full time in wildland fire for 33 years, he continues to learn, and strives to be a Student of Fire.