Oregon Wildfire Response: Multiple Fires on Wilson River Hwy Contained, REMS Team Deployed to Akawa Butte

On July 21, fire crews responding to reports of brush fires on Oregon’s Wilson River Highway (Highway 6) found two separate fires at milepost 34. Together the fires covered about an acre of moderate vegetation and threatened nearby heavy timber. Six fire agencies, including Forest Grove Fire & Rescue, arrived within minutes and placed the fires under control in roughly 20 minutes. The highway was closed for about 50 minutes and reopened to one lane. Investigators suspect the ignition may be linked to a mechanical issue on a vehicle traveling the highway.

The following day, Portland Fire & Rescue dispatched its Rapid Extrication Module Support (REMS) team to assist firefighters at the Akawa Butte wildfire. The four‑person REMS crew, trained in high‑angle rope rescue, vehicle extrication and advanced pre‑hospital care, provided specialized rescue capabilities for wildland firefighters operating in remote, rugged terrain.

Both incidents illustrate coordinated multi‑agency responses to Oregon wildland fire threats and the deployment of specialized rescue resources to protect frontline firefighters.