Fire Crews Respond Promptly to Dompier Creek Wildfire

TILLER, ORE - A wildfire that ignited near Dompier Creek Road was promptly brought under control by quick-acting fire teams on Friday, April 28, 2023. The Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA), Tiller Volunteer Fire District, and Milo Rural Fire Protection District collaborated to mitigate the threat posed by the fire, which had initially engulfed an estimated 1 - 1.5 acres of second-growth and wood debris. Responding teams arrived on the scene at approximately 4:00 pm and immediately initiated suppression tactics, successfully halting the fire's forward spread. At the time of writing, the first responders are maintaining their vigilance on the ground until the fire is entirely contained. No residential properties or other structures are currently threatened by the fire. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability and perpetual danger of wildfires, irrespective of the season. As such, residents are urged to exercise extreme caution when burning yard debris or using fire in woodland areas. Before initiating any burn, residents are advised to prepare an adequate fire trail around the pile and ensure they have essential fire tools and a water supply at the site. It is essential to remember never to leave debris piles unattended, and to fully extinguish any fire before leaving the area. Additionally, residents who have burned debris piles during the winter or spring are encouraged to revisit and inspect the burn sites, ensuring the piles are thoroughly extinguished. If not properly managed, old burn piles can smolder for weeks or even months, potentially reigniting on a warm, windy day. Finally, residents are reminded that those who opt to burn yard debris can be held liable for fire suppression costs and damages to neighboring properties if their burn escapes containment. Safety should be the foremost priority in preventing the spread of wildfires in our communities.