Firefighters making progress on Garfield Road Fire

Emergency managers are scaling back their operations in Nassau County as firefighters continue making progress containing the Garfield Road Fire.

The fire has burned 706 acres and is 75 percent contained, but the Florida Forest Service hopes to have it 85 percent contained by Friday night.

For the past 48 hours, firefighters from across the region have worked to keep the fire contained.

Friday many fire crews were seen hosing down burned areas.

“We just like to help. That’s what we’re out here to do,” said Nassau County firefighter Carl Nishiyama.

Crews are focusing their efforts on “mopping up,” which means they’re saturating the ground with water to extinguish any hot spots. It’s extremely important work that is tough and hazardous. Firefighters are acting as spotters, keeping an eye on weakened tree limbs that could fall on their teammates as they mop up.

An area still burning near County Road 121 is of concern.

“Again just because of the houses and the obstacles with the fences and all these other man-made objects on this side,” said Noah Wyatt, Florida Forest Service firefighter.

The fire will be closely monitored over the weekend.

“If something gets out of the line we’re here quick to respond. It’ll be a coordinated effort and it’ll be fast,” said Annaleasa Winter, Florida Forest Service spokesperson. “Definitely the worst was on Wednesday now as long as we can hold it with strong winds and low humidity, you know anything can happen.”

Resident Stacy Waters said the outpouring of help has been inspiring but the real heroes are the first responders.

“What an incredible blessing that the first responders have been so gracious and kind and have fought well,” said Waters.

Tables filled with clothes, food, and water fill up Bryceville First Baptist Church.

Waters said they’re now working to help families who have been affected.

“We want to fundraise for these families if you can look around and see that the community has donated incredibly,” said Waters.

The Florida Forest Service’s forest area supervisor, Victor Taylor, said it could take weeks to mop up hot spots.

“We are working on trying to get a strike team of engines in here, which will increase our ability to put water in here,” said Taylor.

If you know a family that is in need of help, call 904-548-0900.

Cox Media Group