Truck fire points up dangers

Bend Fire & Rescue was dispatched at 3:05 a.m. on June 29 to a reported vehicle fire on Tumalo Reservoir Road near Mock Road.

Initial reports were of a trailer full of hay that was on fire. First-arriving apparatus found multiple spot fires along a 500-yard stretch of Tumalo Reservoir Road, primarily on the north side of the road. Additional resources were requested, including U.S. Forest Service, Oregon Department of Forestry, and Cloverdale Fire District, to assist in suppression efforts.

Deschutes County Sheriff's Office and Deschutes County Road Department also assisted with traffic control in the area. An engine from Redmond Fire & Rescue was requested to stand by to provide coverage in the district.

Both the wildland component of this fire and the vehicle fire were quickly knocked down. No structures were lost, and damage is limited to $12,000 to the GMC 2500 pickup truck, the 8-by-20-foot flatbed trailer, and approximately three tons of hay.

The cause of the fire is under investigation at this time.

Bend Fire & Rescue reminds the community to be very cautious as hot and dry conditions have arrived across the High Desert. Take the following precautions to prevent vehicle-caused wildfires:

• Practice safe towing. Dragging chains throws sparks. Use appropriate safety pins and hitch ball to secure chains.

• Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained, with nothing dragging on the ground.

• Maintain proper tire pressure. Driving on exposed wheel rims will throw sparks.

• Carry a fire extinguisher in your vehicle and learn how to use it.

• Don't drive your vehicle onto dry grass or brush. Hot exhaust pipes and mufflers can start fires that you won't even see - until it's too late.

• Brakes worn too thin may cause metal-to-metal contact, which can cause a spark.