Governor Brad Henry tours fire damaged McIntosh County

Wildfires across Oklahoma this week have burned more than 60,000 acres and 50 homes have been destroyed. <br/><br/>Governor Brad Henry got first hand look at some of the devastation left behind Thursday.

Thursday, December 1st 2005, 9:02 am

By: News On 6

Wildfires across Oklahoma this week have burned more than 60,000 acres and 50 homes have been destroyed.

Governor Brad Henry got first hand look at some of the devastation left behind Thursday. The governor spent the morning in McIntosh County, surveying one of the hardest hit areas.

He then went to the command post setup in Henryetta to get a rundown of how the fires are being attacked and the resources available. There were 26 fires, covering 6,000 to 8,000 acres, which were reported to the Henryetta command post Wednesday.

So far there the only death reported because of the fires is a 68 year old Carter County woman who apparently died trying to protect her land from flames.

Governor Brad Henry: "The devastation is incredible, itâ€™s vast and it's challenging for our firefighters because it's not just in one area. There are fires in 20 areas right now. Many of them have been contained, but they are popping up all over the place."

Governor Henry says he will move heaven and earth to make sure our firefighters have the tools they need to fight fires.

FEMA funds have already been secured for Stephens, Mayes and Garvin counties.