Firefighters continue to battle Rush Fire

LAWTON, Okla. (KSWO) – Firefighters are still working to extinguish a large grass fire that broke out in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.

Officials say the fire has burned more than 12,000 acres and is now about 48% contained.

According to them, 161 people are now involved in the firefighting, 26 engines, 2 bulldozers and several aircraft are involved.

“We look for hot spots on everyone, and one of the best ways to find hot spots is to take your glove off and feel and see if there are any hot coals,” said Red Team Chief Information Officer John Nichols. “You’re not trying to get burned, you’re just taking it easy when you feel any of it, and some crews will step up and do that to make sure there’s no more heat along that edge. “

The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge remains closed to visitors due to safety concerns.

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