Sioux Center firefighters responded to a string of fires Monday that stretched across several miles of roadway, while also assisting with a large regional grass fire over the weekend, as dry conditions prompt a burn ban across Sioux County.
Fire Chief Dave Van Holland says crews were called Monday after a truck traveling through the area unintentionally started multiple fires.
Van Holland says the driver did not realize it was happening, and the fires were likely caused by a hot component or material coming from the vehicle.
In total, about 14 separate fires were reported, stretching from east of Sioux Center to several miles west. Most of the fires were contained to roadside ditches, though some spread briefly into nearby fields and waterways.
Multiple departments responded to help contain the fires, including Rock Valley, Hull, Boyden, Orange City, Ireton, Hudson, and others. Damage was limited primarily to ditches and waterways.
The activity followed a busy Sunday, as Sioux Center crews assisted departments near Bronson and Sergeant Bluff after a large grass fire burned across parts of Woodbury and Plymouth counties. Van Holland says that they didn’t return until 7:00 pm that evening.
Departments from Hull, Ireton, Rock Valley, Orange City, and Sioux Center worked together to extinguish remaining hot spots, including burning trees, groves, and debris.
With dry conditions across the region, fire officials are urging caution.
Van Holland says residents should avoid burning for now and be mindful of potential fire risks, including discarded cigarette butts or equipment issues that could spark fires.
As of Tuesday morning, a burn ban is now in effect across Sioux County. The Iowa State Fire Marshal proclaimed that open burning currently poses a danger to life or property.
The order took effect at 8:00 a.m. Tuesday and will remain in place until conditions improve. Violations can be charged as a simple misdemeanor.
