Firefighters near Edmond stopped a grass fire that burned more than 100 acres of land late Tuesday afternoon.

The fire broke out near Interstate 35 and Covell Road. The flames burned just meters from several homes and businesses.

Thanks to the efforts of the fire brigade, a business district was spared from the flames. Edmond Deputy Fire Chief Chris Denton estimated that the fire burned 160 acres but that damage to structures was limited. He credited his team’s training after they contained the fire.

“The key is to get as many people involved as quickly as possible,” Denton said. “We have a lot of new companies coming here. A lot of new houses are being built here.”

Crews were busy with multiple fires across Oklahoma on Tuesday. Randy and Sue Gouge’s Edmond home, where they lived for 30 years, was close to the action.

“We saw a lot of fire,” Randy Gouge said.

The emergency services observed the fire from the air.

“It’s always great to look up at the sky and see what’s going on,” Denton said.

Edmond firefighters continued to focus on the ground, preventing the fire from spreading to people’s homes.

“I have confidence in the Edmond Fire Department,” Sue Gouge said. “You are doing a wonderful job.”

Gouge said she hoped Mother Nature would change her plans.

“We pray for the rain,” Gouge said.

Denton said preparation impacts on-site work when seconds count.

“Many neighboring agencies came and assisted with this fire. Much appreciated,” Denton said. “We don’t want to use our skills, but on days like this it really comes in handy.”

Denton said crews will remain in the area and check for hotspots. Investigators will also work to determine the cause of the fire.

Denton said the fire caused minor damage to some buildings and vehicles. St. Luke’s Methodist Church in Edmond is open and serving all residents who have been evacuated due to the grass fires.