Marshland Fire Keeps Many On Their Toes!

Photo BW

Yesterday morning began as a beautiful Spring Sunday morning.  Windows were opened early in the warm sunny, but breezy,  morning and as I prepared breakfast my husband took to the task of cutting the grass.

I know in my heart that getting things done today either before church or after  were on the minds of many residents in the area. 

Then the sirens...and the clouds of dark smoke clouded the sky. A quick ride to the Sanford area indicated that the marshlands were on fire.

Saxis Fire Department was responding and a few minutes later the Division Forestry, Atlantic, Bloxom along with rescue personel from Oak Hall and Parksley. 


My best guess was the winds at the time were blowing from the NE with gusts up to 30 miles per hour, away  from land for the present time.  Suddenly the perfect day turned into a heart in the throat kind of day.

Photo Martha J. Linton

The origin nor cause is not known by me at this time but I do know that the fire ravaged a great deal of the marshlands on Sugar Hill Lane, Shad Landing Road and burned towards Saxis into the area of a crab house on the causeway which is a lively business for a local family. Clouds of smoke could be seen as far away as Delaware.

Since fire has a mind of its own, this beast, brought under control many times by fire personel, seemed to dance it's way into a small portion of a wooded area and across the roads in certain places.    It was quite apparent that if the wind shifted the quiet tiny town of Sanford along with Tall Pines Harbor Campground  , an extremely beautiful and popluar campground would be in danger.  Owners of the campground were kept busy informing and reassuring camp goers that all was being taken care of.

Photo Tall Pines Harbor Campground

Fire personel were on the scene until late yesterday evening.  One report is that a local fireman was injured and has been taken to a burn center in Baltimore.  It should be known that yesterday was not an easy, relaxing Sunday for many.  These fireman put their day on hold, lives  on the line and in listening to their voices via scanner, never faultered in judgment, never lost their temper and never, ever gave up hope!

Photo Parksley Volunteer Fire Company, Inc

The fire department was called out once again early this morning for a rekindle and am hoping that was resolved quickly.

What a day for our local fire departments and forestry.  Hats off to all of them with many thanks for a wonderful, professional and couragous job.  They always come through for us - that's why we love and respect them.

Please keep in mind that there should be NO control burning until 4 PM daily. 

When conducting a control burn in your area
PLEASE:  always check with your local fire department or Sheriff's office prior to burning