Baker City Fire Department receives $210,000 grant and responds to structure fire

The Baker City Fire Department has been awarded a $210,000 federal grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters program. Fire Chief Michael Carlson stated the funds will be used to purchase oxygen tanks and protective clothing, known as turnouts, which will save the city approximately $200,000 in direct costs. The department plans to stagger the purchase of turnouts to manage future replacement costs.

Separately, a significant structure fire occurred on September 23 in the 1800 block of 20th Street. The blaze destroyed a house, a detached garage, and a vehicle. While the resident was able to exit the building safely before crews arrived, they were transported to a hospital for a medical condition.

Twenty-four firefighters from four different departments responded to the incident, including the Baker Rural Fire District and North Powder Rural Fire District. The fire was contained to the property and did not spread to neighboring structures. The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office is currently investigating the cause of the fire, and the American Red Cross is assisting the displaced resident.