Electrocuted Squirrel Sparks Small Wildfire In Colorado: Firefighters

FORT COLLINS, CO — An electrocuted squirrel sparked a small wildfire in northern Colorado over the weekend.

The Poudre Fire Authority was called to a small wildfire Saturday morning near Trilby and Hidden Springs Road, less than two miles from Horsetooth Reservoir. Crews arrived to flames scorching about a half-acre of grass.

They quickly contained the fire and searched for hot spots nearby.

Investigators determined an electrocuted squirrel ignited the blaze.

"Rest assured our crews made sure to give the squirrel a proper burial before clearing the scene," the fire authority said in a Facebook post.

The department added: "This just reminds us that while the majority of wildfires are caused by humans, there are other causes as well, like wildlife and lightning strikes."

Firefighters reminded residents to keep fire safety in mind during thunderstorms.

"If you see lightning and then smell or see smoke, please check around you," the fire department said, noting that lightning is the No. 1 cause of natural wildfires, and that a "lightning strike to a home can cause unseen hazards."

This includes blown breakers and fuses and melted electrical lines. High temperatures can also lead to fire.