||| FROM BEN LUNA for ORCAS ISLAND FIRE & RESCUE |||
Between July 1 and July 4, Orcas Island Fire and Rescue responded to five fire calls, including two structure fires in Olga. The first structure fire began at approximately midnight on the 1st, and the second structure fire began at approximately noon on the 4th. In both cases, more than a dozen fire fighters and multiple fire engines responded to the scene. In addition, EMTs were dispatched to provide on-scene support and care for firefighters. There were no reported injuries.
The two fires are not related, and the causes are under investigation.
Additional calls included response to a smoke alarm investigation for a commercial building involving a small kitchen fire, an illegal burn pile and for the report of a wildland smoke investigation.
Islanders are reminded that smoke alarms play a critical role for saving lives and saving property. Please contact OIFR if you have any questions about smoke alarms for your residence. OIFR would like to emphasize the need for annual alarm and battery checks for all fire alarm units.
Islanders are also reminded that San Juan County has closed commercial and residential burning for the season. Please contact the Fire Marshal for updates and changes.
Lastly, as we enter the dryest and hottest time of the year, OIFR requests that all islanders and visitors use extra caution with barbeques, recreational campfires and any activities which have the potential to create floating embers. If you smell or see smoke which is not coming from a barbeque or campfire, please call 911 immediately.
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