Pittsburg Fire Department Assists in Wildfire Mitigation Efforts with Kansas Forest Service

PITTSBURG, KS – April 9, 2024 – The Pittsburg Fire Department proudly announces its successful participation in its inaugural deployment with the Kansas Forest Service (KFS) to combat a wildfire spanning Pottawatamie and Riley Counties.

Following extensive collaboration and training with the KFS over the past year, Pittsburg Fire Department responded to a large grass fire that rapidly escalated along the Riley/Pottawatamie County line over the weekend. The challenging terrain and weather conditions initially hindered local crews’ efforts to contain the blaze, prompting a request for additional support. In response to a verbal state of disaster proclamation issued by Governor Kelly, outside resources were summoned to aid in the firefighting efforts.

Pittsburg Fire Department dispatched one apparatus staffed by two firefighters, Ryan Flinn and Dakota Burton, to assist in the operation. Over the course of four days, firefighters from across the state worked tirelessly to contain the fire, named the Burkland/Axelton Fire, while simultaneously battling another blaze, the Big Blue 2 Fire, in Marshall County.

Chief Taylor Cerne of the Pittsburg Fire Department, expressed pride in the department’s contribution, stating, “This deployment has provided an extraordinary opportunity for us to apply our training and skills to serve not only Pittsburg but the entire State of Kansas. Our collaboration with the Kansas Forest Service has been instrumental in preparing us for such scenarios, and we are committed to continuing to enhance our capabilities to better serve our community and state.”

The responding PFD crew is expected to return home Tuesday evening, marking the conclusion of their dedicated efforts in assisting with the Burkland/Axelton Fire containment.

For further information, please contact Fire Station #1 at (620) 231-1870

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The Pittsburg Fire Department remains committed to providing the highest standard of service to our community. By conducting these essential tests and flushes, we reaffirm our dedication to safety and excellence.