07/11/2026
On the morning of July 4th, three engines from Northport and District 11 were dispatched to the Chelan Hills Fire. They arrived in the early afternoon and were given their assignments. One of the District 11 engines, along with their strike team, was assigned to prep houses on the left flank of the fire. After treating some of the homes, there was a severe wind shift and increase. Radio communications went out that the fire had breached the containment lines and all resources were to evacuate and return to their safety zones.
The District 11 engine in the area immediately started down the escape route, but were soon in thick smoke and flames. Through the skills and training of the crew, and the hardened resilience of the military diesel truck that served as the chassis for their engine, they were able to travel down the road and get to the safety zone. On the way, the truck sustained significant damage due to the heat. One crew member had first degree burns on the ear. They were transported to the hospital to get checked out, but were released the same evening.
When the crew returned home, they took part in a critical incident debrief with a professional therapist. This is standard procedure for our agencies when a significant incident occurs. The health and well being of our members is a top priority.
There were other trucks that did not make if off the hill and were burned over, but all of their crews escaped, some with minor injuries. The crew is grateful that the other crews made it out and continue to be in their thoughts and concerns.
Fighting fire is an inherently dangerous task, whether it is in the wildland or on vehicles or structures. We train on firefighting tactics and practice with our equipment. All drivers have to take specialized training for emergency apparatus. When fire behavior becomes extreme firefighters rely on their knowledge and skills developed during training and through experience gained on incidents. The crew on this incident credits their training with enabling them to keep their cool and not panic.
We ask that you be sensitive to our crew members at this time. They are doing well, and appreciate all of the concern that people are expressing, but they need some time to process the experience.
You can reach our chief through the phone number or email on our page.
