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At approximately 6:20 PM, Grants Pass Fire responded to a reported structure fire in the 1200 block of SW Jordan St. The first unit arrived within five minutes to find a wind-driven fully involved structure with fire spreading to a second structure and other buildings imminently threatened. A third alarm was called to bring additional resources from Jackson and Josephine County to the scene.
Eleven fire engines with over thirty firefighters battled the wind-driven fire, bringing it under control in just over an hour. Grant Pass Police provided critical road closures and patrolled the area, looking for spotfires. Several were detected and extinguished without further damage.
A shop was destroyed along with several outbuildings and a home was heavily damaged. American Medical Response evaluated two firefighters on the scene for heat exposure. None required transport to the hospital. The Oregon State Fire Marshals Office will be investigating the cause and origin of the fire.
This fire is a prime example of our outstanding partnership with Rogue Valley fire departments and emergency services. Grants Pass Fire was assisted on the scene by Grants Pass Police, Grants Pass Fire Dispatch, Rural Metro Fire Department Josephine County, Jackson County Fire Dist. 1, Illinois Valley Fire Department, Evans Valley Fire District, Applegate Fire District, Rogue Valley Chaplains, American Medical Response Josephine County, Oregon State Fire Marshal, and Josephine County Emergency Management.
Grants Pass Fire wants everyone to enjoy the July 4th celebration safely. Only Oregon-safe fireworks are allowed within the city limits of Grants Pass on July 4th between 6:00 PM and 11:00 PM. Fireworks are not allowed in the area west of NW Highland and NW Dimmick, north of the railroad tracks, the area north of Interstate 5, all City parks, and any public school. (You can refer to the attached map of fireworks exclusion zones for more details).
The use of all fireworks is prohibited within the City of Grants Pass when the National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for our Fire Weather Zone 620.
To safely enjoy fireworks, you can attend the public display at Reinhart Volunteer Park. If you choose to set off fireworks at home, follow these safety steps:
- Never give fireworks to small children and never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures, or flammable materials.
- Always follow the instructions on the packaging.
- Keep a supply of water close by.
- Ensure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.
- Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight a "dud."
- Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.
- Keep pets indoors as exposure to lit fireworks can potentially result in severe burns or trauma. Many pets are fearful of loud noises and can become lost, scared, or disoriented.
Have a safe and happy 4th of July!
The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Risk Alert, indicating that temperatures are expected to reach extreme levels in areas including Grants Pass and the Rogue Valley. Dry humidity and typical afternoon breezes are expected throughout the weekend, increasing the potential for fire growth.
As we approach the 4th of July, it is crucial to exercise extreme caution when using fireworks. Legal fireworks are only permitted within city limits on the 4th of July from 6:00 PM until 11:00 PM outside the Wildfire Hazard Zones, city parks and schools. Additionally, all fireworks are prohibited if the National Weather Service issues a Red Flag Warning. To keep everyone safe, always buy legal fireworks from licensed stores or stands. Check and follow these restrictions. Stay away from people, pets, and buildings when lighting fireworks. If a firework doesn’t go off, don’t try to relight it. Instead, soak it in water and throw it away. Always keep a bucket of water or a charged hose nearby in case of a fire.