A countywide burn ban is in effect. On Saturday, the Nassau County firefighters union said crews responded to 15 calls where every one was caused by an illegal burn.

NASSAU COUNTY, Fla. — Nassau County firefighters are continuing to battle two large brush fires in Hilliard Sunday.

As of Sunday night, one fire located off Conner-Nelson Road is 500 acres in size and 75% contained, according to Nassau County Emergency Management.

“Crews were experiencing some spotting from the fire but were able to catch all spots,” Nassau EM said in a Facebook post. “Today’s (Sunday’s) priorities are to continue with firebreak line improvement, focus on interior and perimeter line hot spots while continuing to monitor fire activity. Crews are expected to be on scene throughout the day with mop-up operations. Please use caution if you are in the area.”



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Meanwhile, the second fire, located near Buford Bay off Georgia Street, is reportedly 100 acres in size and 30% contained.

“Crews have a contingency line surrounding the fire,” Nassau EM said. “Today’s (Sunday’s) operations will have three heavy firefighting tractor-plow units and three medium tractor-plow units. A Florida Forest Service fixed wing aircraft will be monitoring district fire activity. Crews are expected to be active in the area off of Georgia St. and the Buford Bay area. Please avoid the area if possible as smoke may be an issue.”

County officials said a Florida Forest Service helicopter dropped 116 buckets of water on flames and identified hot spots, while three heavy dozers stayed overnight Sunday, creating and improving existing contingency lines.

RELATED: Hilliard Little League hosts spaghetti dinner for first responders fighting two wildfires


Schools brace for potential impacts

While schools are still expected to operate normally Monday, some school bus routes along Conner-Nelson Road and Bay Road may be modified or unavailable if the roads are closed, the Nassau County School District said Sunday. Students who are unable to attend school due to fire-related issues will have their absences excused, the district said, so long as a note is provided. 


Burn Ban in effect

Due to the ongoing record drought, officials have issued a burn ban, prohibiting residents from burning things like trash and debris. On Saturday, the Nassau County Fire Rescue firefighters union said crews responded to 15 calls, where “every single one [was] caused by illegal burns.”

“Conditions right now are extremely dry, and it only takes seconds for a small fire to turn into a dangerous situation,” the Nassau County Fire Rescue firefighters union said. “What starts as a simple burn pile can quickly threaten homes, property, and lives. Please do your part to keep our community safe—hold off on burning until conditions improve and the ban is lifted.”