Bremen Firefighters Responded to Campfire on Crotch Islands

Photo by Courtesy of Bremen Volunteer Fire Department

Photo by Courtesy of Bremen Volunteer Fire Department
BREMEN, ME — August 16 — The Bremen Volunteer Fire Department, located at 568 Waldoboro Road, Bremen, ME, United States, 04551, responded around 7:49 a.m.to a report of smoke on Crotch Islands.With the assistance of local residents, four firefighters and their equipment were transported to the island.Upon arrival, the crew discovered an unattended campfire that had not been completely extinguished.Firefighters worked for approximately four hours to extinguish the fire and inspect the surrounding area for any remaining hot spots.Three firefighters stayed on standby on the mainland in case additional personnel or equipment was required.
The incident underscored the difficulties of responding to a fire on an island, where crews and equipment must be transported by water before any suppression efforts can commence.
According to the Maine Forest Service, campfires should never be left unattended and must be soaked, stirred, and checked for any lingering heat before individuals leave the area.Maine law also mandates that campfires must be fully extinguished before anyone departs.
In addition, the Bremen Volunteer Fire Department used its department website to encourage volunteer recruitment and provide training opportunities.