KNDO/KNDU Tri-Cities, Yakima, WA | Yakima County Firefighters Put out 802 Fires So Far This Year

Yakima County Firefighters Put out 802 Fires So Far This Year

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YAKIMA, Wash.- Yakima County firefighters have put out more than 100 fires since fire season started in May.

Just Friday, firefighters battled flames, trying to keep them from spreading to more brush. Valley Septic lost 200 toilets and 1 truck, totaling close to $100,000 in damages. This fire was one of the 802 fires locally so far this year.

"The Valley Septic fire was kind of an unusual situation," said Yakima County Fire Marshall Don Linder.

Firefighters usually take on house fires. Brush fires are more common in the summer, but now there's a new trend.

"We're seeing an increase in cooking fires," said Linder.

On Monday, six people were injured in a home fire in Buena. Firefighters suggest people be more active in prevention.

"Have a fire escape plan, wherever you go know at least 1 or 2 ways out of the home," said Linder.

Smoke detectors are also important. People could have escaped the home quicker. Firefighters often say, fire victims are surprised their homes catch on fire.

"Sometimes we let our guard down thinking it wont happen to me, but it can, and sometimes it does," said Linder.   

But with all the recent fires, some people are starting to take action.

"I'm really paranoid about fires so I check everything and make sure everything is up to date so that I'm safe," said Katie Dickman, a new homeowner in Yakima.

Firefighters say people living in rural areas should also make sure to keep grass watered to prevent brush from catching on fire.

Firefighters say all homes and buildings should have working smoke detectors and the batteries should be checked every six months.