Improperly doused debris burn rekindles, sparks brushfire in Whychus Canyon Estates near Sisters

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- A debris pile that was not properly extinguished sparked a bushfire Thursday evening in the Whychus Canyon Estates area north of Sisters, officials said.

Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District personnel responded to a report of smoke in the area and found the active brushfire. The Deschutes County 911 call was received at 7:39 p.m., and crews located the fire at 7:58 p.m. 

Upon arrival, firefighters found a debris burn pile that had not been properly extinguished. The fire had spread into nearby vegetation, prompting a multi-agency response. The homeowner was present at the scene and unaware that the piles had reignited. 

The Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District responded with 12 firefighters and eight emergency vehicles. Additional support came from neighboring agencies, including: 

• Black Butte Ranch Fire District: 1 Type 3 engine and 3 firefighters 

• Cloverdale Fire District: 1 Type 3 engine, 1 Type 6 engine, and 6 firefighters 

• Oregon Department of Forestry: 2 Type 6 engines and 2 firefighters 

Thanks to the coordinated efforts of all responding crews, the fire was contained without further damage to surrounding properties. Crews were returning to the scene Friday to patrol and ensure no hot spots remained.