Lebanon Fire District Responds To 1.2-Acre Brush Fire Along South Santiam River (Photo) - 07/12/26

July 12, 2026 – At approximately 5:04 p.m. today, Lebanon Fire District firefighters were dispatched to the area of Brewster Road and E. Grant Street for a reported brush fire.

The first-arriving Battalion Chief found smoke coming from trees approximately 75 feet in from the river. A drone was immediately deployed to provide an aerial view of the fire, allowing crews to quickly assess its size and develop an effective attack plan.

As conditions indicated the fire had the potential to grow, the incident was upgraded to a First Alarm, bringing in two off-duty firefighters and six volunteer firefighters to assist with suppression efforts. 

The fire ultimately burned approximately 1.2 acres. Firefighters remained on scene for more than two and a half hours extinguishing hot spots and completing extensive mop-up operations to ensure the fire would not rekindle.

Crews utilized a portable water pump to draft water directly from the river, providing a continuous water supply in the remote area. The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) responded with a dozer and constructed a containment line around the fire to help prevent further spread.

One firefighter was stung by a bee. No other injuries were reported.

While crews were actively fighting the fire, both Lebanon Fire District medic units had to be reassigned to respond to three separate medical emergencies, including a cardiac arrest. During that time, the district was assisted by the Albany Fire Department, which provided engine coverage to ensure emergency response capabilities remained available throughout the community.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Lebanon Fire District would like to thank the Oregon Department of Forestry, the Linn County Sheriff's Office, and the Albany Fire Department for their assistance during today's incident.

With the current hot, dry, and windy weather conditions, Lebanon Fire District reminds everyone to use extreme caution with any activity that could spark a fire. Even a small spark from equipment, vehicles, discarded smoking materials, or recreational activities can quickly become a fast-moving wildfire. Help protect our community by following burn restrictions, avoiding activities that create sparks in dry vegetation, and reporting any signs of smoke or fire immediately by calling 911.