Fast-Moving Grass Fire on Lawton's East Side Stopped Before Reaching VFW Post 5263

A grass fire broke out behind Los Tres Amigos at 2002 E. Gore shortly before 3:30 p.m. Friday, and gusting south winds pushed the flames north toward VFW Post 5263 at 103 NE 20th. Bone-dry grassland gave the fire plenty of fuel, and for a while it looked like several structures on the east side were in real danger.

The break came from an unlikely hero: the equipment yard at The UCS Group next to the VFW. That cleared, open ground gave the fire nothing to burn and slowed its advance. Lawton firefighters used brush trucks to work the fire line, protect nearby buildings, and knock down the flames. The fire was brought under control with no structures lost.

Friday’s close call is a good reminder that we’re in the middle of a dry Oklahoma fall. Wind-driven grass fires can start and spread in minutes, and cleared space around buildings really does make a difference. Keep an eye on dry grass near fences and outbuildings, and call in smoke early if you see it.

Have you cleared the dry grass around your property yet this fall?