Tuesday afternoon, MCFR and Dallesport Fire responded to a brush fire on the east side of The Dalles. The occupant was burning yard debris when a gust of wind caused the fire to escape. Due to quick reporting by the owner, fire apparatus and firefighters were quickly dispatched and arrived on the scene within 7 minutes of the 911 call. Thanks to technology installed in the dispatch center and fire stations last year, the incident was dispatched within 5 seconds of the 911 call.
Residents are reminded that burning is automatically suspended when the wind is blowing more than a breeze. Even in March, fires can escape their confines with the wind. Fortunately, the fire did no damage and remained on the owners property. Several thousand gallons of water were required to fully extinguish the fire.