A fire that burned about 5,000 acres across Harvey County did not leave extensive damage, thanks in part to assistance from neighboring counties and two Blackhawk helicopters from the Kansas Army National Guard. Decreased wind speeds on Sunday also helped. Monday, the Hutchinson Fire Department discussed its involvement in fighting the blaze and what crews were up against. Units representing Hutchinson and Buhler formed a Task Force that on Saturday stepped up to protect a home and keep the fire south of a main road.
Battling shifting winds, crews fought to contain the southeast progression of the fire Saturday evening. A second Reno County Task Force and a Rice County Task Force were among the responders who helped to protect rural properties. The crew consisting of Hutchinson firefighters fought into the night on Saturday (Nov. 14) and returned Sunday to assist with overhaul and hotspots.