Firefighters responded to two fire-related incidents last week that led community members to respond to one, and helicopters to be called in for the other.

Highway fires

Clallam County Fire District 3 responded to a series of small fires along US Highway 101 and Taylor Cutoff Road the night of July 28.

Assistant Fire Chief Dan Orr said at least six small fires were started about 10-15 feet apart along the highway and the road.

While the cause is unknown, he said a vehicle dragging a chain, or a vehicle exhaust could have started the series of fires.

“We had an incredible response from about 30 people on the highway with fire extinguishers and hand tools fighting the fires,” Orr said. “It was a tremendous community response.”

Blyn area fire

A large brush fire was reported sometime on July 31 south of Blyn in state forestry land.

Orr said they received many calls from Jefferson County residents who could see the fire in the foothills best. Fire crews from both Clallam and Jefferson counties and the Department of Natural Resources responded to the fire about four miles off Woods Road, Orr said.

Fire officials reported the fire to be about 10 acres burning through slag piles.

Orr said helicopters were called in Sunday morning to dump water, and a bulldozer was brought in to move debris.

Fire District 3 sent a water tender that helped with hot spots Sunday-Tuesday, he said.

With a series of fires in the last week, Orr said the area is facing “really dry weather” and that residents should be more cautious in general as a full burn is in effect.

For more information, contact Fire District 3 at 360-683-4242 or visit ccfd3.org.