A wildland fire sparked by a homeowner burning weeds kept firefighters busy Saturday afternoon. The fire, located on Mistletoe Road, was first reported at 2:30 pm. Due to high winds, the fire gained speed and quickly burned over an acre of heavy brush, timber and shrubs.
Over 30 firefighters from Dallas Fire & EMS, SW Polk Fire District, Polk County Fire District #1, Salem Fire, Falls City Fire and the Oregon Department of Forestry battled the blaze for over an hour before they were able to get containment. Approximately four residences were threatened, but no evacuations were necessary. Amity Fire District was requested to provide station coverage for the Dallas response area until crews were released. No structures were damaged and no injuries were reported.
Dallas Fire & EMS along with the SW Polk Fire Protection District urge homeowners to use caution when burning. Always have at least two ways to put out your fire, be aware of the surroundings; vegetation, structures etc., think of other alternatives other than burning and do not hesitate to call 9-1-1 if your fire gets away from you. For burning information call the Polk County Burn Line at (503)838-2020.
