More than 300 acres burn at World’s Edge

Published 12:11 pm Monday, February 14, 2011

More than 300 acres burned at the edge of Polk County this weekend. photo submitted by Rob and Amanda McComas.

A fire that began sometime Saturday, Feb. 12 burned more than 300 acres at the end of Judes Gap Road in Polk County, or what is referred to as World’s Edge.
Firefighters were still working the fire Monday, but were hoping to have the burn-out completed Monday afternoon.
Sunny View Fire Chief Marty McGuinn said firefighters have been working the blaze 24 hours a day since his station received the call Saturday afternoon at 4 p.m.

A fire near the edge of Polk County continues to burn as fire fighters attempt to contain the fire. (photo submitted by Columnist Rob McComas)

McGuinn said the area is extremely rugged terrain that is difficult to access. The fire began in a very remote area, he said.
Sunny View firefighters were assisted by the Mill Spring Fire Department and the Polk County Rescue Squad, which utilized ATVs to better access the fire.
The N.C. Forest Service, N.C. Parks Service and the Edneyville Fire Department have also been fighting the fire.
All the burning occurred in Polk County, but the area is very near Henderson County.
The departments have been taking action to protect structures, as well as keeping personnel and fire trucks near residences. There are a few vacation homes and  full-time residences on top of the mountain. No structures were burned, McGuinn said.
Once local firefighters complete the burn-out, the forest service will likely continue work in the area for a few days to ensure the fire is completely extinguished.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

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