The West Thurston Fire Authority and its partner agencies were able to halt a brush fire in South Thurston County on Monday afternoon before it could reach homes in the area.
The fire authority was dispatched to the blaze near Case Road and 180th Avenue South, just west of the Scatter Creek Wildlife Area, at about 1:30 p.m. Tuesday.
“Upon arrival, crews found the fire activity spreading into thick vegetation, and a large grass field threatening multiple nearby structures,” the fire authority stated in a news release. “Firefighters took immediate action to evacuate and protect those structures. West Thurston crews, along with multiple mutual aid agencies, worked diligently to contain the fire.”
The fire burned 8 to 10 acres before being contained. No structures were lost.
“Residents may continue to see smoke in the area as crews work to extinguish remaining hot spots,” the fire authority stated in the release.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
West Thurston Fire Authority was assisted by Tumwater Fire, South Thurston Fire, Olympia Fire, East Olympia Fire, McLane/Black Lake Fire, Griffin Fire, Lacey Fire District 3, Grays Harbor Fire District 1, Riverside Fire Authority and the Department of Natural Resources, which provided air support.
“This is a reminder that fire season is here,” said West Thurston Fire Chief Nathan Drake. “Conditions are extremely dry and consistent winds can cause fires to spread quickly. Please use caution and follow all local burn restrictions.”
