A crew from the Canby Fire District is returning home today after being deployed to assist in the response to the sprawling Mosier Creek Fire in central Oregon last week.
The unit was led by Captain Jason Wanner and also included engine boss Brad Frank and firefighter Bo Ramos. Division Chief Matt English told the Canby Now Podcast Friday that the crew was serving at the head of the fire and was doing well.
The Mosier Creek Fire caused thousands to evacuate and eventually spread to almost 1,000 acres in Wasco County.
But the conflagration is considered at least 65 percent contained as of Monday, and fire officials report that all of the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s remaining structural protection task forces and incident management team will demobilize and head back to their local jurisdictions later that day.
Crews spent their last morning on site “mopping up” 200 feet into the burned area from the containment line — working to ensure there are no hot spots remaining and that the burned areas are cold before working in further.
The Oregon Department of Forestry will remain with firefighting resources and overhead management personnel to continue working on mop-up operations.
Division Chief English said the Canby contingent is expected home this afternoon. Canby Fire had a busy weekend in their absence, including a water rescue on South Arndt Road Saturday and two simultaneous cardiac episodes on Sunday.
“We are glad to have our crew back home and appreciate all the hard work they put in,” English said.
Governor Kate Brown also toured the front line of the Mosier Creek Fire Monday, seeing firsthand the work of hundreds of first responders in fighting the devastating conflagration.
“I’d like to thank the incredible men and women on the frontlines fighting to protect the homes and livelihoods of so many in Wasco County,” said Governor Brown. “From the volunteers, to the fire crews, and everyone who puts their lives on the line each and every day to protect Oregonians, we are grateful for your service.”
