HERMISTON, Ore.- A quickly spreading brush fire fueled by dry conditions and high winds near Alpine and Baggett Lane in Hermiston was contained on the afternoon of May 8.
Umatilla County Fire District #1 (UCFD#1) crews were dispatched to the fire that was reportedly threatening structures just before two p.m.
The fire jumped the road due to the dry conditions and high winds, and several fire services from around the region provided mutual aid, helping to protect nearby structures and stop the fire from spreading, including, Umatilla Rural Fire Protection District, Pendleton Fire & Ambulance, Echo Fire Department, and Irrigon Fire Department.
The Hermiston Police Department and Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office also assisted on scene.
No structures were lost & no injuries were reported from the fire, according to UCFD#1. Crews remained on scene mopping-up for several hours after the fire, and the cause of the fire is now under investigation.
May is Wildfire Awareness Month, and UCFD#1 is reminding the community that now is the time to prepare before fire season intensifies.
Creating defensible space around your home, clearing dry vegetation, properly maintaining equipment, and having an evacuation plan can make a major difference during an emergency, according to UCFD#1.
Community members should also be aware of fire conditions, follow local burn regulations, and stay fire safe.
