Published: January 31, 2025
Bartow, Fla (Jan. 31, 2025) – Polk County’s Mosaic Peace River Park, located at 2200 County Road 640 in Bartow, will reopen Saturday, Feb. 1, following a brush fire that caused the park to close on Jan. 30 and 31.
Polk County Fire Rescue crews and mutual aid provided by the Bartow Fire Department and Florida Forest Service battled the fire. No buildings or structures were damaged. There were no injuries reported, and the cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Polk County Parks and Natural Resources and Polk County Fire Rescue are seeking the public’s help in preventing accidental brush fires throughout the county. Here are a few tips to help reduce the chances of a brush fire:
- Secure trailer safety chains properly to prevent them from sparking on asphalt.
- Dispose of cigarette butts properly.
- Do not litter or accumulate piles of dry debris.
- Do not park a hot vehicle over dry vegetation.
- Obey local laws regarding open fires, including campfires.
- Carefully dispose of hot charcoals, make sure the coals are cold.
- Never leave a fire unattended, especially overnight.
- Do not burn anything outside on windy days.
- Keep a sufficient water source nearby when grilling or starting a campfire
For more information about Mosaic Peace River Park visit https://www.polk-county.net/park/mosaic-peace-river-park/ or call Polk County Parks and Natural Resources at (863) 534-7377.