Press release from Humboldt Bay Fire:

On May 26, 2021 at 11:11 P.M. a single engine from Humboldt Bay Fire was dispatched to a reported vegetation fire, several trees burning, on the 400 Block of Ole Hansen Road, between the Freshwater and Indianola areas. The initial reporting party could see a fire across several acres of pasture land. Additional callers to Humboldt Bay Fire’s Dispatch Center reported that it was a large vegetation fire. Humboldt Bay Fire Dispatchers upgraded the response with additional units, including a water tender and Chief Officer. While responding, the first in unit could see that the fire was actually a structure burning near several trees. The fire officer immediately requested a full structure response.

Upon arrival the first fire unit found a fully involved 30 by 30-foot lawn and maintenance equipment barn. Fire was impinging on a nearby 10 by 12-foot tool shed. Due to the rural area additional water tenders were requested from Arcata Fire Protection District and Blue Lake Fire Department to aid in providing a continuous water supply.

Humboldt Bay Fire personnel were able to gain control of the fire within thirty minutes and prevented damage to additional outbuildings, construction equipment, and vehicles. Prior to the fire department’s arrival, a neighbor was able to successfully retrieve a tractor from the barn. The barn and its remaining contents were a total loss which was estimated to be $20,000.

There were no injuries to residents, fire personnel or animals at the incident.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. There is nothing suspicious at this time. Although the neighbor’s actions are commendable, Humboldt Bay Fire does not recommend entering a burning structure as fires can grow rapidly, overwhelming persons with smoke and toxic gases.