08/27/2007: "Firefighters Deployed To Assist In Major Wildland Fire"

Friday Harbor, WA – This last Friday, August 17th while locals and tourists alike enjoyed the festivities of our local fair, the San Juan Island Fire Department dispatched three firefighters and a wildland fire engine to assist firefighters attempting to contain a 43,000-plus acre wildland fire near Benton City, WA. The fire which was burning near the Hanford Site, threatened 250 structures including residences within Benton City.

Lieutenant Noel Monin was assigned to the incident as a Strike Team Leader. Lieutenant Tad Lean and Firefighter Michael Henderson responded in one of the San Juan Island Fire Department’s specialized wildland firefighting vehicles.

Over the course of their three day mobilization, they were assigned to assist with efforts to protect threatened structures. While some deployments could last up to 14 days, depending upon fire behavior, recent weather contributed favorably in this particular event and as of this morning, the fire, dubbed the “Wautoma” incident, has been contained.

San Juan Island Fire Department personnel are often asked to participate in wildland fires statewide. Local firefighters have earned a good reputation off island for being well trained and skilled, essential assets when it comes to battling the region’s wildland fires which rage each summer. All factors are considered when a request is received to ensure local needs are not impacted.