SPOKANE, Wash. — As another weekend of elevated fire danger approaches, firefighters in Spokane are bracing for potential new flare-ups while managing the lingering effects of an unusually severe fire season.
Fire District 9 officials say the combination of wind and dry vegetation poses a significant threat heading into the weekend. Over the last 24 hours, the district reported small flare-ups with the Autumn Lane and Fairview fires, though neither is currently spreading. Still, officials are urging residents to remain careful and vigilant.
“The multiple fires that we’ve seen and the destruction with each fire is something that Spokane hasn’t seen — based on many others that have been involved in planning and deploying and responding to incidents in the Spokane region for many years,” said Matthew Vinci, fire chief for Fire District 9.
This fire season has tested the district’s resources and personnel in unprecedented ways. The Upriver Fire alone destroyed 14 homes, and the district responded to all three major Spokane area fires that ravaged the region. The cumulative impact has forced the fire district to significantly increase staffing levels.
“It almost feels like every weekend now, we’re bringing in additional staff to make sure that we have the resources in place to protect the county and protect our residents,” Vinci said.
The toll on firefighters has been substantial. During the Spokane Complex Fires, some personnel worked 40-hour shifts without relief. Despite the exhaustion, battalion chief Matthew Von Steuben emphasized the readiness of the crews.
“It’s been a lot. The crews are ready though. They’re ready to go. We train on this frequently,” Von Steuben said.
Recognizing the physical and mental demands placed on its workforce, Fire District 9 has implemented several wellness programs to support firefighter health. The district has made personnel wellness a top priority.
“Number one investment for us is to make sure that we take care of our human resources, our people, the wellness of them and make sure that they have the rest they need and the support they need,” Vinci said.
Beyond increased staffing this weekend, Fire District 9 is coordinating with other agencies in the area to prepare for potential fire activity and ensure a coordinated response if new fires ignite.
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