Edmond, OK – A fire erupted behind Centennial Elementary School on Tuesday afternoon, quickly spreading across an estimated 20 acres of densely wooded terrain. The Edmond Fire Department received the first call at 2:05 p.m. and dispatched multiple engine companies to the scene.
Rapid response and containment efforts
Fire Chief Terry Essary confirmed that crews worked diligently to contain the blaze, rotating personnel to keep firefighters hydrated and safe. “We do have an ambulance on standby just in case, but so far, we’re good with making sure everybody’s staying hydrated and rotating firefighters in and out,” Essary said. “But again, we’re going to be here until this is over.”
Despite challenging underbrush that continued to ignite, the department reported that the fire remained confined to the wooded area and posed no immediate threat to nearby residences or the school itself. No structures were damaged, and there were no reported injuries among students, staff, or the public.
Community safety measures
Officials emphasized that an ambulance was positioned on site as a precaution, underscoring the department’s commitment to public safety. Residents in the surrounding neighborhoods were advised to stay alert, keep windows closed, and avoid the fire perimeter while crews completed suppression and mop‑up operations.
“There is no imminent danger to nearby residents,” a fire department spokesperson added. “We will remain on‑site until the fire is fully extinguished and the area is safe for the community to return to normal activities.”
Impact on school operations
Centennial Elementary remained open throughout the incident, with administrators monitoring air quality and ensuring that students were not exposed to smoke. The school’s principal reported that classes continued as scheduled and that the safety of students and staff remained the top priority.
Parents were notified of the situation via the district’s emergency communication system, and the fire department coordinated with school officials to keep the community informed.
Looking ahead
The Edmond Fire Department will conduct a post‑incident review to assess response tactics and explore ways to mitigate future wildland fires in the area. Officials also plan to work with local land‑management agencies to address the buildup of combustible underbrush that contributed to the fire’s spread.
Community members are encouraged to report any suspicious activity or unattended flames, especially during the dry season, to help prevent similar incidents.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
