PELHAM, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) – As firefighters battle numerous wildfires in our area, we headed to the top of a fire tower to talk to the responders who know best.

In times of increased fire danger, these fire towers can make all the difference. A fact we learned firsthand from over 50 feet in the air.

Just moments after Western Mass News concluded our interview at the Pelham Fire Tower, a scene from what felt like a drama TV show began to unfold.

As tensions visibly increased, we asked the firefighters what they saw from above the trees.

“Right now there is a large brush fire that my partner Tower Goshen found, as well as the Shelburne Tower, they are ignited somewhere in Plainfield. At the moment they are asking for each other’s help,” we were told.

It's moments like these, captured on camera, that truly capture the role of a fire tower.

“During critical periods like we are experiencing this week, when key towers are operational and staffed, we are the eyes in the sky for these local resources,” said Chief Fire Chief Dave Celino.

It is the local firefighters who are fighting these bushfires on the ground, but from 15 meters in the air they are being told where to go.

The Pelham Fire Chief explained the impact of these tall towers.

“These wildfire towers up here are our human smoke detectors,” claimed Pelham Fire Chief Dennis Nazaro.

“When we face an increased fire risk like this, it’s a team effort. All of these agencies are coming together to be ready to respond to the needs,” Celino added.

Forty-two fire towers in the region monitor millions of acres across Massachusetts.

Firefighters from around the world are on high alert as warm temperatures and wind are the main causes of bushfires.

Many have appeared and more could come soon, explained Celino.

“We have had 19 fires and 102 hectares of land in the last three days alone.”

All of us at home may not have the hoses and equipment to fight these flames, or watchtowers to see them coming, but we know how to stop them before they start.

“A cigarette butt from a highway could easily start a fire on dry grass today; Abandoned campfires are a problem.”

For more information about bushfires and how to protect yourself and your communities, click HERE:

https://www.westernmassnews.com/2024/10/23/fire-officials-warn-brush-fires-due-dry-breezy-conditions/

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