The president of the Josephine County Rural Fire Protection District said the Board Shanty Fire underscores the critical importance of coordinated fire protection and emergency response in the wildland-urban interface.
Mark Jones said the Grants Pass area incident illustrates why the District's board of directors voted unanimously to enter into a formal agreement with Rural Metro Fire Department on July 7th -- just 10 days before the Board Shanty Fire started.
Thanks to a fast and aggressive initial attack led by Rural Metro -- working in seamless coordination with the Oregon Department of Forestry -- Jones said the fire was rapidly engaged, helping to prevent greater spread and potential damage.
The successful response last Thursday afternoon was bolstered by longstanding mutual and automatic aid partnerships with agencies including Grants Pass Fire & Rescue, Williams Rural Fire Protection District, Applegate Valley Fire District, Illinois Valley Fire District and many others.
Jones said the District's board thanks all the agencies involved for their dedication and courage, and they pray for their continued safety as they work to protect lives and property.
