EDMOND—A brush fire burned grass on the PCG’s headquarters campus on November 17 before being doused by local firefighters. No one was injured in the incident, and no structures were damaged.

A dormant burn pile on the northwest section of the campus apparently rekindled due to high winds, burning grass and a few hay bales approximately 100 yards north toward Simmons road before it was controlled and extinguished by fire crews. Damage to an electrical transformer temporarily caused a power outage for Faculty Row and dormitories, but Oklahoma Gas & Electric quickly repaired the damage and power was restored.

The pile was last burned two weeks ago on a rainy day, the maintenance department said. The local fire marshall indicated that it is not uncommon for embers to be rekindled in such high winds.

The burn pile, which is located next to a fire hydrant, was doused by fire crews from Edmond and from Guthrie, with the help of maintenance staff members who operated heavy equipment to smother the flames with a dirt pile that is kept nearby for the purpose. In the past, fire crews have visited and practiced on campus as a safety measure, and local fire departments are familiar with the grounds.

“We are grateful for the quick action of the members of the Edmond and Guthrie Fire Departments,” Marketing and Public Relations manager Shane Granger said. “The facilities department is reviewing its burn procedures and safety protocols, and we will always have the safety of our community as our top priority.”