Unattended burn barrel blamed for fast‑moving blaze; officials urge residents to follow city burning rules
Southport police and firefighters responded Saturday afternoon to an uncontrolled fire in the 200 block of East 11th Street after reports of flames seen spreading between neighboring properties.
According to Southport Police, the first arriving officers found a fast‑moving fire affecting multiple properties, fueled by dry vegetation and steady winds. Sections of privacy fencing were already damaged when Southport Fire Department crews arrived and began working to stop the fire’s advance.
Firefighters brought the blaze under control in about 20 minutes, though crews remained on scene for roughly an hour performing overhaul and checking for hotspots.
Investigators determined the fire originated from an unattended burn barrel, a source prohibited within Southport city limits. The city allows only attended “cooking fires,” such as those used in approved fire pits for food preparation.
Saturday’s weather conditions contributed to the fire’s rapid movement. Low humidity and gusty winds created an environment where embers could easily travel and ignite dry brush — a common winter hazard when rainfall is limited.
No injuries were reported, and no structural damage occurred beyond fencing and yard debris.
The Southport Fire Marshal’s Office is conducting the follow‑up investigation and will determine whether any citations or enforcement actions are appropriate.
BC News Staff Writer
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