Bend fire crews douse brushfire along Deschutes

People walking along the Deschutes River Trail spotted a brushfire in the rocks below the River Canyon neighborhood Saturday afternoon, bringing crews rushing to the scene and dousing the blaze.

Police are seeking information about the fire, possibly linked to two juveniles reportedly seen running from the area.

It’s not known if the juveniles were involved in the fire, which scorched several hundred square feet of rocky brush off Brookswood Boulevard, said Bend Deputy Fire Marshal Dan Derlacki. But anyone with information about the blaze or anyone seen in the area was asked to contact police at 541-693-6911.

Derlacki said the walkers’ quick notification brought firefighters to the scene quickly, keeping the fire from spreading up the hill and threatening homes. It burned a few hundred square feet, he said.

“Bend Fire Department reminds parents that school is almost out, and with the hot and dry weather of late, it is very important that you talk with your kids about fire safety,” Derlacki wrote in a news release.

“Each year, Bend, and all communities in Central Oregon, have numerous fires started by kids who are misusing fire, having campfires when they are not supervised by adults or are causing intentional fires,” the fire official said.

“The first week away from school is always the busiest week of child-related fires here in Bend and we want to remind parents to take a few minutes and talk to their kids about the dangers of fire. Bend Fire Department has resources for parents to use at http://www.bendoregon.gov/index.aspx?page=1121

“If you have a child or teen who is fascinated by fire or has misused fire, even once, contact your local fire department for assistance,” Derlacki continued. “We can provide a risk assessment intervention, fire safety education, referral to additional resources, and help you keep your family safe.

“If you live within the boundaries of the City of Bend or Deschutes Rural Fire Protection District #2, please call the Bend Fire Department at 541-322-6309 to request assistance.”