Cortez grass fire burns small area

The Cortez Fire Department reported a small grass fire Monday evening on the east side of Cortez.

Six firefighters responded just after 6:30 p.m. Monday to an area near 2216 E. Main St., behind Bealls Shoe Store, Assistant Fire Chief Shawn Bittle said.

A fire had burned a 30-by-30-foot grassy area. Crews were on the scene for about 45 minutes to clear the fire, he said. The burn area was relatively damp, so it was contained quickly, he said.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation but is suspected to be intentional, Bittle said. He reminded people to be aware of surroundings when dealing with fire.

“Pay attention to burn conditions for the day before you decide to burn any trash or brush,” he said.