Forest Grove Fire & Rescue:
Just after 12:30 this afternoon, we responded to a reported brush fire on the Wilson River Highway (Oregon Highway 6). There were several reports of multiple fires along the highway and with this information we upgraded the incident to a first alarm response. This incident location is outside of our jurisdiction and in Oregon Department of Forestry managed land. Our goal was to get as many units on scene to keep the fire small.
Upon the arrival of fire crews, two fires were found at Milepost 34. Together they were approximately an acre in size, burning in moderate vegetation with the threat of spreading into heavy timber. Once on scene, the fires were brought under control in about 20 minutes. On hot summer days like today, our goal is to keep these fires small, no matter what the jurisdiction is. In total, 6 fire agencies responded with additional units from Tillamook County standing by.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by ODF, but appears to be related to a mechanical problem on a vehicle that was driving on the highway. For the safety of fire crews, the highway was closed down for about 50 minutes and was reopened to one lane once the fire was under control.
We heard several statements about drivers going by, but not having anything to fight the flames when the fires were small. During summer, it’s a great idea to carry a jug of water in your vehicle. As trips and vacations take you throughout Oregon, a lot of those trips take you through farmland or State and National Forests. Be prepared and be ready to help keep fires small.
Oregon Department of Forestry – Forest Grove Unit received assistance on scene from us as well as Banks Fire District 13, Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue, Gaston Rural Fire District, Hillsboro Fire & Rescue, Washington County Sheriff’s Office and Oregon Department of Transportatio
