Heroes of the week: Maine Firefighters Extinguish Blaze in Acadia National Forest

Firefighters are heroes, whether extricating people from auto accidents, saving them from river rapids or fires, or extinguishing fires in structures or forests. Today's hero of the week are firefighters in Maine who responded quickly and squelched a blaze in a National Forest back in April of this year. Here's the story: 

(Photo: Park rangers and other responders start on the St. Sauveur trail to suppress fire. (National Park Service))

Firefighters Extinguish Blaze at Acadia National Park 

By Sean Murphy MainePUBLISHED 2:20 PM ET Apr. 24, 2023

Firefighters spent nearly three hours Sunday afternoon (April 23, 2023) fighting a wildfire at Acadia National Park, according to a statement from park officials.

The fire, first reported around 3:30 p.m., was along the St. Sauveur hiking trail in the park.

Local fire departments fought the blaze, which covered about half an acre. The Maine State Forest Service also used its helicopter to conduct water drops. The fire, according to the park’s statement, was out by 6 p.m.

“We are incredibly appreciative of all of the local agencies who responded to this unexpected event,” said Kevin Schneider, the park’s superintendent. “As we head into another busy summer season we are reminded how lucky we are to work with community members who help us protect Acadia National Park and its visitors.”

The statement did not state a cause but included warnings about campfires in the area.

“In Acadia National Park, contained charcoal and wood fires are allowed only in campgrounds and designated picnic areas within park-provided receptacles or in private grills, and they should be monitored closely at all times,” officials said in the statement.