Bend Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a reported structure fire east of Bend late Sunday afternoon. At 5:36 pm, fire crews were called to 23900 Skywagon Drive, located off Dodds Road and Cougar Trail approximately 9 miles east of Bend. Upon arrival, a small fire involving a pole barn and contents was found. The fire was quickly extinguished by crews on scene. Upon investigation, it was found that the property owner had burned a pile of tumbleweeds in an area adjacent to the pole barn about 20 minutes prior to discovering the fire. Embers from that fire were carried by strong winds into hay that was stored in a covered area next to the barn. Radiant heat to the metal siding of the pole barn spread the fire to the structural posts and items stored inside the barn. Damage is estimated at $5,000 to the structure and $1,000 to the contents.
All fire agencies throughout Central Oregon regulate debris burning and may close burning periodically due to weather or other factors. Community members wishing to burn are required to find out what the burning regulations are for their area and ensure that they are followed. Debris burning is permanently banned by ordinance within the City limits of Bend, but is generally permitted within Deschutes County Rural Fire Protection District #2 with the exception of fire season and weather-related closures. A copy of the burning regulations may be found here: https://www.bendoregon.gov/
