STAUNTON, VA (Rocktown Now) — Fire and Rescue crews battled a significant outdoor fire for most of the day Wednesday in the Staunton area.

Authorities say firefighters were dispatched early in the morning to 525 Betsy Bell Road on reports of a large fire at Betsy Bell Wilderness Park.

Upon arrival, crews immediately began suppression efforts and, due to the steep terrain and limited access to the affected area, worked into the late afternoon extinguishing hot spots and establishing a fire break to prevent spreading.

The blaze ultimately affected over 1-and-a-half acres before containment.

Downed trees and other debris may continue to smolder and produce smoke over the next several days.

However, Staunton Fire and Rescue is actively monitoring the site.