Fire on the mountain in West Milford. Photo Credit: Amy Kistler
By Jerry DeMarco, Daily Voice
Authorities confirmed Wednesday night that a brush fire in West Milford, NJ that initially appeared contained had grown to 250 acres in size.
Nearly a dozen homes or other structures were threatened by what was dubbed the “Kanouse Wildfire,” which ignited off Route 23 near the Charlotteburg Reservoir shortly before 2 p.m.
Members of the New Jersey Forest Fire Service were working throughout the night building fire lines, authorities said.
West Milford Mayor Michele Dale insisted there was no reason for concern.
Related news:
Crews battle massive brush fire (ABC 7)
“The State Forest Fire Service is on-site to backburn to contain the fire and prevent further spread, which is why residents are still seeing and smelling smoke,” Dale said shortly before 8 p.m.
Northbound Route 23 remained closed between Germantown Road and Union Valley Road. Echo Lake Road was closed between Rt. 23 and Macopin Road, which itself was open to through traffic, the mayor said.
“The only homes currently in a potential risk area are located on Blakely Lane, but a team of engines from West Milford Volunteer fire companies are on-site for structural protection,” Dale said. “All horses have been evacuated from Echo Lake Stables.
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