(Lindenwold, NJ) – Since yesterday, a wildfire has expanded to consume more than 1,200 acres of pinelands in Wharton State Forest in Waterford Township and parts of adjacent Burlington County near the former Atco Raceway. Firefighters from the state Forest Fire Service report that the blaze is 40% contained and is not a threat to any structures in the area.
The Camden County Department of Public Safety and Office of Emergency Management are monitoring the fire and is in communication with the state Forest Fire Service. Jackson Road is closed from Tremont Avenue to Atison Road in Waterford Township and its important motorists find alternate routes around the fire.
“At this time, the department of public safety are standing at the ready to support the state with any needs they have while they fight this wildfire in Waterford,” Commissioner Jonathan Young, liaison to the department of public safety said. “Nevertheless, and maybe more importantly, we need drivers to stay off Jackson Road in that area, so the firefighters can do their work and for the health and welfare anyone entering the area in there car.”