GREENFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) -- Dry weather increased the risk of brush fires across western Massachusetts Tuesday, with multiple incidents reported in Franklin and Hampden counties.

A brush fire in Southwick burned through approximately five to six acres near Moolicious Farm, threatening the ice cream shop, a home, and nearby structures. The fire started in a cabbage field and spread at least 1,000 feet through dry vegetation within minutes. “I walked over the hill, thinking it was just a small fire, and it was rolling,” said Joe Deedy, co-owner of Moolicious Farm.

Deedy’s grandson spotted the flames from the second floor of the home. “My grandson on the second floor said, ‘Ooh, Grandpa’s having some fireworks’ and it escalated from there. No fireworks,” he explained.

The fire burned close to vehicles, structures, and a natural gas compressor station. Firefighters from Southwick and Granville responded to the scene. “They said ‘You were five minutes away from some big trouble and the way it spread, we probably have five or six acres like this and we have Longhi’s Golf Course, so nothing but grass here to go,” Deedy added.

It took firefighters at least two hours to get the fire under control. No one was injured. “To witness it, it’s amazing how quick something can spread, so we’re very fortunate the fires were right down the stream. Granville helped us out too and they got it put out in no time,” Deedy said.

Around 3 p.m. Tuesday, sparks from a freight train traveling through Greenfield and Deerfield sparked several brush fires, threatening several structures in the area. More than 100 firefighters from three states responded to the scene and knocked down the flames within a couple of hours. “The rapid spread of the fire was a concern, but the firefighters from all of the cities and towns that came to assist really deserve a lot of credit. They did a great job. They worked very hard,” said Greenfield Fire Chief Robert Strahan.

The train fire was accidental. Strahan warned those who live in or along wooded areas to be cautious. “We encourage them to make sure that they keep the brush and debris, this time of year, away from the houses and give yourself a good fire break and report any type of smoke that they see to the fire departments right away,” he explained.

Fire officials advise residents to check with local fire departments for outdoor burning restrictions, as dry weather means the rules could change day to day.

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