On April 29, 2025, the Goshen Fire Department (Indiana) responded to a report of a small brush fire near 4024 Elkhart Road (US 33). At the time of the incident, winds were out of the west-southwest at approximately 26 mph.
Initial Response:
Goshen 993 was dispatched to the scene following multiple 911 calls.
Fire Chief 901, who was in the area, visually confirmed the fire and alerted dispatch.
US 33 is a major four-lane highway that runs through Goshen, connecting the city to Elkhart, Indiana. Upon arrival, Goshen 993 encountered a small grass fire located in a strip of vegetation between the highway and the railroad tracks.
Fire Suppression Efforts:
The crew deployed two pressurized water cans to extinguish the fire.
A fire swatter was used to thoroughly cover the burned area and ensure the fire was completely out.
Due to strong wind conditions, a 1¾-inch hoseline was also deployed to wet down the surrounding area.
Electrical Hazard Encountered: During water application, the 993 crew officer observed a large electrical arc in an area that had recently been accessed by the firefighters. It was then discovered that a 7200-volt transmission wire had fallen into the burned area. Fire crews immediately retreated and contacted the utility company.
An investigation revealed that a crimp on a utility pole had failed, causing the wire to fall into overgrown brush, where it remained camouflaged. No damage to the pole or other visible signs of fallen lines were apparent until a lower, sagging wire was noticed on a nearby pole to the east.
Before the utility crews arrived, the downed wire arced multiple times, melting in several places where it came into contact with the ground and igniting a second fire further east.
LESSONS LEARNED:
-Always slow down during suppression efforts and verify overhead hazards, especially when working near power lines.
-Visually inspect surrounding utility poles to ensure all expected wires are accounted for and in place.
-Use extreme caution in areas with tall vegetation that could conceal electrical hazards.
