Fire Burns 4 Acres in Huntley Marsh, Causes Minor Damge To Home

HUNTLEY, IL A controlled burn in a marsh area behind homes on Steeplechase Way in Huntley spread beyond its intended boundaries Monday afternoon, fire officials said.

The Huntley Fire Protection District was called ot the blaze at 1:14 p.m. and, when they arrived, found a large field fire moving through marshland behind several residences.

Investigators determined the fire started as a controlled burn being conducted by contractors, but windy conditions caused it to jump two berms and become uncontrolled, according to a news release.

Firefighters worked to contain the flames in the swampy terrain, calling in additional personnel to assist with the challenging conditions, fire officials said. One nearby home sustained minor exterior damage from the heat but remained habitable, and no injuries were reported.

In total, the blaze burned through four acres.

Following the blaze, the Huntley Fire Protection District is reminding residents and contractors that all outdoor, prairie, or landscape burns must comply with local and county burn ordinances.

Officials emphasized that even controlled burns can quickly spread under windy conditions, and precautions should be taken to prevent fires from escaping intended areas.