East Side district, IDL douse wildland fire Off Asbury Road

HARRISON — East Side Fire District volunteers recently contained a wildland fire off Asbury Road that burned about five acres.

The 911 call reporting a fire in the district's south side came in while volunteers were returning from a training exercise. A community member had lost power during a wind event and went out to investigate. They found a fallen power line that started a fire, which quickly spread due to dry conditions and wind, a press release said.

Fire crews worked to control the fire, which quickly spread from a 50’ x 50’ fire to nearly two acres because of terrain, wind and dry conditions. 

East Side Fire volunteers jumped into action to hold off the fire until the Idaho Department of Lands arrived. Once they arrived, they quickly gained control of the fire and remained on scene to mop up remaining hot spots. 

The rapid response from East Side Fire District volunteers, combined with additional resources from IDL—including air resources and a bulldozer—helped prevent the fire from spreading beyond seven acres, the release said.

East Side Fire District would like to recognize and thank its dedicated volunteers for their rapid response, hard work, and commitment to protecting the community. The district also extends its appreciation to the Idaho Department of Lands for its quick response and for providing critical resources that kept the fire from getting out of control.

A special thank you goes to the residents who spotted the fire and reported it early. With gusty winds and dry conditions present that day, a wildland fire can grow and spread extremely quickly. Early detection and prompt reporting can make a significant difference in a fire's outcome, the release said.