A small brush fire broke out 11:44 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 16 on Paradise Bay Road, directly across from the Port Ludlow Village Store. The initial size of the fire was reported to be approximately five feet by five feet.

East Jefferson Fire Rescue responded with a full alarm assignment for the brush fire, dispatching four engines staffed with 12 personnel and the Battalion Chief. The first engine to arrive observed that the fire had grown to about fifty feet by fifty feet. The crews quickly contained the fire. Full extinguishment was declared at 12:35 a.m. 

NAVMAG Indian Island and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s department were responding partners. The Department of Natural Resources assisted with improving containment lines around the fire’s edge and patrolling for hot spots.

No injuries or property damage was reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The fire department recommends using caution when driving through the area, and watching for firefighters.

“Recently we have had grass and vegetation fires throughout District One, including Beaver Valley, Port Townsend, and now Port Ludlow,” said Fire Chief Bret Black.

“We need people to be prepared.”

For the next few months Jefferson County will experience higher than average potential for wildfires due to weather and drought. The department reminds residents to “be ready, get set, go early.”

“Have a go bag and do not wait to be told to leave. We have increased firefighter staffing and training to address the elevated wildfire threat. The risk is very real. Evacuations are typically directed by law enforcement but, like the fire department, they will also be overwhelmed. If you feel threatened by smoke or a wildfire, evacuate early!” Black added.

To receive emergency notifications, sign up for NIXLE. Visit the fire department’s website for more information.