Burning leaves spreads, destroys trailer in Macedonia

MACEDONIA — A single-wide trailer was destroyed after an outdoor burn spread to the structure Wednesday evening, the Macedonia Volunteer Fire Department said.

Firefighters were dispatched to the 100 block of Otis Lee Road at about 5:30 p.m. March 4 after a report of a trailer fire, the department said. Crews found flames visible from multiple sides and said the fire was rapidly spreading through the trailer when they arrived.

Firefighters deployed hose lines from the first-arriving engine and began an interior attack, the department said. They later shifted to a defensive operation after structural instability and collapse occurred inside the trailer. Crews remained on scene about two hours to bring the fire under control and extinguish hot spots.

The trailer was unoccupied and no injuries were reported. After speaking with the property owner, officials said the blaze began while leaves were being burned in the yard, spread out of control and eventually ignited the trailer. North Forrest Volunteer Fire Department and Dixie Electric Power Association assisted at the scene.

The Macedonia Volunteer Fire Department reminded residents that outdoor burning can quickly become dangerous, especially in dry or windy conditions, and urged people to keep burn piles a safe distance from structures and to have a water source or other means of controlling the fire available before burning. This is a developing story and will be updated as more details emerge.