Bend Fire & Rescue responded to report of smoke off of Bear Creek Road and Bennett. The first arriving crews could see smoke coming from a brush and tree’d area about 300 yards south of Bear Creek. After making access on foot, they were able to identify a one quarter-acre fire along the canal.
Alfalfa fire department responded as well to assist. A total of three brush engines, one structural engine, two water tenders and assorted command rigs are on scene. The fire appears to been caused by a lightning strike to a tree in the area. It appears to been smoldering and hidden by the layer of smoke in the area.
At the same time at this fire was being dispatched, Bend Fire & Rescue was dispatch to reported illegal open burn at Butler Market Rd and Silvis. Crews found the occupants burning yard debris in a large pile. The occupants were ordered to extinguish the fire and resources were diverted to the brushfire.
“Both of these incidents are a good reminder that we are not out of fire season yet,” according to Bend Fire & Rescue news release. “Despite the cooler weather heading our way it is still very dry out and susceptible to fire. All debris burning is banned currently. We do not anticipate debris burning for sometime. Check with your local fire agency before igniting any sort of fire to be sure it is allowed.”
