Brush Fire Near Red Mountain Calls Attention to Fire Season

A drought situation and sudden influx of warm temperatures has focused attention on what is expected to be a dry fire season in the Mid Columbia.

A fire along Highway 224 near Red Mountain Monday was extinguished by Benton County Fire District 4 after what was believed to be pieces of burning tires sparked off five different fires.

They were brought under control, but officials say the sudden jump in warm temperatures and thunderstorm activity have started the 2015 fire season early.

Officials didn't say what the source of the tires were, if they came off a vehicle or were set on fire by other means.  Fire officials say the public should pay close attention to any potential fire hazards around their property or homes, especially if they live in or near rural areas, or large fields with flammable vegetation.

(Photo courtesy of Benton County Fire District 4 - Bob Shannon)