“All City Engines” Respond to Overnight Fire in Grants Pass

Grants Pass, Oregon- On Saturday night at 11:32p, the Grants Pass 911 Communications center received a call reporting a residential fire, prompting a coordinated response from Josephine County emergency services.

Grants Pass Fire (GPF), Grants Pass Police Department, Rural Metro Fire – Josephine County, and AMR-Josephine County were all dispatched to the scene. The first on-site responder, Grants Pass Battalion Chief 4, arrived to encounter a large two-story home with an active fire on the second floor, marked by visible smoke.

Within four minutes, the GPF Parkway Engine arrived, manned by two firefighters. A quick and strategic response ensued with the deployment of a line and a transitional attack, involving the exterior spraying of water. This technique was employed until additional support arrived, approximately two minutes later.

Engines from GPF Hillcrest Station and GPF Redwood Station joined the effort, contributing to fire extinguishment, search and rescue operations, ventilation, and salvage efforts.

The collaborative response persisted for approximately two hours, with all city engines committed to the scene. During this period, Rural Metro engines assumed coverage for the city, and an “All Call” was initiated to summon off-duty personnel to support the operation.

While the investigation into the fire’s cause is ongoing, Grants Pass Fire emphasizes the importance of working smoke alarms and the necessity of having a well-thought-out escape plan. This incident serves as an important reminder for the community to prioritize safety measures in their homes.