Wildfires continue to plague Oklahoma

Thursday, January 19th 2006, 1:09 pm

By: News On 6

Wildfires continue to be a big story across Oklahoma, but thanks to firefighters, the damage has been minimal. A wildfire south of Muskogee burned several hundred acres of pastureland, some hay, and at least one outbuilding.

The burned path is more than 2 miles long. Firefighting aircraft responded to help stop it.

In Rogers County, firefighters are trying to crack down on arsonists. They believe a mile-long grass fire was started by fireworks. It started alongside a road and burned about 700 acres and a shed.

No homes were damaged, but a fire truck from Northwest Rogers County was burned. Investigators say if they find out who started it, they will tack on a huge bill.

In Ottawa County, 75 acres and one business burned. Jakes' Bargain Barn near Wyandotte was lost in the fire. Officials believe a spark thrown from the muffler of a truck started it.

Southwest of Oklahoma City, a fire jumped a river, but did not burn any homes. An RV park in the path of the fire was evacuated. A large pile of tires caught fire sending thick, black smoke into the air.

Governor Brad Henry got a first hand look at some of the damage left by the fires. He's asked FEMA to expand its official disaster area. A decision could come Friday.