Editor: Shannon Cottongame
September 14, 2023
Local fire departments battled a hay and field fire off of HCR 1248 in the Whitney area Friday night, September 8.
Firefighters were called to the area at around 10 p.m. and were on scene until approximately 1 a.m. They were able to contain the fire and save nearby homes.
The fire was believed to be caused by an illegal controlled burn, according to firefighters on the scene.
Hill County remains under a burn ban that was put in place by the Hill County Commissioners Court at the end of July as dry conditions persist and wildfire risk remains high.
All outdoor fires, including fires in a container or semi-enclosure, are prohibited. This does not include grills or smokers for cooking food if they are attended. Welders must also have adequate fire suppression equipment and personnel on site.
Whitney, White Bluff, Lakeview, Peoria and Woodbury fire departments responded.
The Lakelander 