Community helps crews battle wildfire

HEATH, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - Crews continue fighting a wildfire in the Cook State Forest, and one family in Heath is giving a little extra to help those crews.

On Saturday a lightning strike started a forest fire in Colrain and Heath that grew up to five acres in size. Western Mass News caught up with local firefighters to find out how community support has helped them over the past few days.

Nicolas Anzuini, Fire Chief for the Heath and Colrain Departments, relied on help from many surrounding towns and their technology, but little did they know that a small house on a hill would really be their key to fighting this wildfire.

George Critides and Sarah Coe have lived on their little hill for decades and they have never had to use their property as an advantage point looking over a wildfire.

“We are so happy to be able to help, we want to be on their right side after all.” Said Sarah Coe.

She told us what they believed the Saturday morning smoke to be: “We thought it was a campfire.” But later in the day the couple decided it was time to call in the professionals. “It started to flare up and the smoke got heavier, and it was a little darker grey and it didn’t look normal at all.” Coe added.

They had no idea that their call would lead dozens of firefighters, police officers, and others to their secluded property to figure out where exactly in the forest the fire was. Coe and Critides, both happy to help. “It’s a small town and everyone needs to help each other.” Critides added.

The Heath residents were able to bring all their concerns right to the people with the answers. “We haven’t had to worry about the danger of the fire because we’ve got them all here and they answer every question they ask, it’s actually been pretty good.” Said Coe.

From letting the crews use their bathrooms to charging their phones to giving them a helping hand, Coe and Critides feel so lucky to share their property for the greater good. “And it’s a good thing we were home!” Coe added.

Crews expect to have the fire completely contained by the end of this week, but in the meantime, there is no threat to residents in the area.