Monday’s Safety a Top Concern for Fire Crews

Ever since Kentucky won in the Sweet 16, fans have rushed the streets after the game and every time the celebration has grown.

Lexington fire crews said there were likely around 3,000 people on State Street just minutes after the game ended Sunday but they said the crowd grew to more than 10,000 people in the State Street area by the end of the night.

Crews expect even more fans Monday.

“The larger crowds just by nature are going to produce more injuries and more fires,” said Battalion Chief Brian Wainscott.

Lexington fire crews said they put out at least 80 fires after UK beat Wisconsin and they said they helped 35 people who were hurt.

“We’re not keeping folks from partying but we’re there for a reason it has to be done safely,” said Wainscott.

Fire crews said they’re gearing up for Monday by adding extra staff but don’t plan to stop the celebrations unless they have to.

“I think we know that if there’s a will there’s a way.  There’s going to be a fire but we’re trying to minimize the size of the fire and the intensity so that it doesn’t grow and draw a bigger crowd so that no one is jumping through it and getting hurt,” said Wainscott.

Lexington Police said 21 people were arrested Sunday night for a combination of alcohol intoxication and disorderly conduct.