Raphael P.M. Lotilla, Secretary at Department Of Natural Resources | Department Of Natural Resources
Raphael P.M. Lotilla, Secretary at Department Of Natural Resources | Department Of Natural Resources
The Benzie Road Fire near Houghton Lake in Roscommon County, Michigan, has been fully contained, according to officials. Fire crews are continuing to extinguish remaining hot spots along the fire's perimeter.
"They will be out there for the next several days, mopping up to make sure the fire remains contained," said Jeff Vasher, resource protection manager for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
The fire began early Sunday afternoon in a marshy area east of Old U.S. Highway 27 near the Clare-Roscommon county line. The area consists of mixed conifer and hardwood forest. Efforts to control the blaze involved firefighters from the Department of Natural Resources, local fire departments, bulldozers, fire engines, and drone aircraft.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Officials note that most wildfires in Michigan are caused by human activity. With dry conditions expected to continue, residents are urged to check for burn permits online or call 866-922-2876 before burning yard debris. Additional fire safety information is available at Michigan.gov/FireManagement.
Alerts Sign-up