BERNE, NY - Firefighters were called to the Cole Hill State Forest for another report of a brush fire on August 8th. A 911 call was made stating that there was smoke showing at the forest. Berne and East Berne Fire Departments responded to the scene.

Fire chiefs enroute to the scene stated they could see heavy smoke on the hill and requested Westerlo Fire mutual aid to the scene.

First responders notified dispatch of a pickup truck leaving the road to the shooting range on the hill as they were arriving. Albany County Sheriff’s units met up with the individual at the end of the road, who went to the main road to call 911 for the fire. He told dispatchers that the fire most likely began from a hot round that was shot off. Firefighters were able to quickly stop the flames before it could get out of control.

One firefighter was treated and released on scene by Helderberg Ambulance and Albany County Paramedics for symptoms of heat exhaustion. Crews extinguished hotspots and returned to service shortly after.