Watertown Fire Rescue, along with South Shore Fire responded to a large grass fire Friday afternoon. The fire occurred approximately 6 miles NE of Watertown. It was reported by a passerby. The dry, windy conditions made fighting the fire extremely difficult. Upon arrival, firefighters found a large fire that was being carried across a pasture by the wind, towards an occupied structure. With the help of South Shore Fire Department and several neighbors, the home nearby was spared from the fire. No structures were lost in the fire, nor were there any injuries reported. The fire burned approximately 250 acres of pasture and grass. There were several shelter belts damaged and about 25 bales burned in the fire. Conditions are extremely dry at this time, as we enter spring off of one of the dryest winters on record.

WFR reminds you that any fire you start, whether it be a slough burn off or a burn pit, is YOUR responsibility. You can be held liable for any damage that occurs from a fire that gets out of control, and it can happen very quickly this time of the year. Today's winds topped out at approximately 35 MPH. WFR would like to thank the handful of local farmers for their assistance. WFR often uses these resources as they can show up with tillage and discing equipment rather quickly, which saves time. Just a reminder, if you do plan on burning anything, call the Watertown Police Dept at 605-882-6210 and Watertown Fire Rescue at 605-882-5030. Thank you, WFR.