KENNEBUNK — Authorities say a wildfire that spread over more than 300 acres began when a Kennebunk man didn’t properly extinguish a brush fire. The man has been issued a summons in connection with the fire, authorities say.

A wildfire that began in afternoon on May 2 in Kennebunk spread over 314 acres in Kennebunk, Wells and Sanford. Firefighters from about 13 communities worked with forest rangers for many hours to put out the fire. No one was injured and no buildings were damaged, and the fire was under control on May 3.

The area was still being monitored by local firefighters and forest rangers, District Ranger George Harris said on Thursday afternoon.

Michiel Brown, 69, of Kennebunk, has been issued a summons for failure to extinguish a fire, Harris said. Brown burned some brush after obtaining a burn permit, but failed to put the fire completely out. Warm temperatures and high winds created an environment conducive for smoldering embers to rekindle.

Brown could face up to a $500 fine and $25,000 in restitution payments. 

Harris urges people to make sure fires are completely extinguished. Ash can retain a lot of heat and spread with the wind. He advises people to “drown and stir” and make sure ash is cool to the touch. 

“Use lots of water and make sure you stir it in,” he said.

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.