Firefighters from more than 40 different agencies took part in a two-day wildfire training course at the Metro Advanced Wildland School near Molalla this weekend.
Representatives from Canby Fire, Clackamas Fire, Colton Fire, Hubbard Fire, Lake Oswego Fire, Molalla Fire, Woodburn Fire and Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue were among the 70 firefighters taking part in the annual training — the largest group to date.
Firefighters were drilled on a wide variety of practice scenarios, including putting out live fires with helicopter airdrops — as Canby Fire shared in a Facebook video.
Another area of intense focus was communication between other firefighters and aerial resources.
The privately owned property on Sawtell Road south of Molalla has hosted this annual training for more than a decade. Last year’s event was put on hold due to the pandemic and the inability to replicate the experience virtually.
At least three large wildland events are currently active in the state — including the Milepost 85 Fire near The Dalles, which has burned 170 acres and is 70% contained after briefly closing Interstate 84 and forcing evacuation orders earlier this week.
Canby Fire and assisting agencies responded to a brush fire that broke out shortly before noon on Linda Lane south of Canby near the Lone Elder Store. Crews were at the property for two and a half hours bringing the blaze under control and mopping up the scene.
A backyard burn ban was in effect last week due to unusually high temperatures and dry conditions, but that was lifted Friday.
For the latest information, call the Canby Fire District’s daily burn line at 503-266-1195.
