[Update: Spreading] Vegetation Fire on Railroad Tracks in Arcata

Monday, 17 August 2015, 11:31 am Oliver Cory One comment

Scanner traffic indicates fire crews are responding to a vegetation fire on the railroad tracks at the end of Fifth Street in Arcata. Fire crews were requested shortly before 11:30 a.m. today. According to the scanner, the fire is about 10 feet by 10 feet in size. There is a column of smoke that can be seen by fire personnel, and they are saying the easiest way to access the fire is going to be to go through Wing Inflatables. We’ll update when we have more information.

Update 11:32 a.m.: The fire is believed to be in a homeless encampment. Firefighters are having trouble accessing the fire because, at the moment, they don’t have a long enough hose.

Update 11:41 a.m.: The Arcata Police Department is at the scene helping fire crews determine what is the easiest way to access the fire.

Update 11:47 a.m.: The fire has a “moderate rate of spread,” and, according to the scanner, the fire has spread to be about 200 feet by 100 feet in size.

Update 11:53 a.m.: Law enforcement officers have been asked to respond to the scene and make contact with people who may be responsible for the fire.

Update 12:13 p.m.: Facebook post from Arcata Fire:

Arcata Fire District currently on scene of a brush fire.

Posted by Arcata Fire District on Monday, August 17, 2015

Update 2:31 p.m.: Press release and photos from Arcata Fire:

Arcata, CA- (August 17, 2015)- At approximately 11:30 A.M. Arcata Fire District was dispatched to a vegetation fire near the railroad tracks north of Samoa Blvd./Hwy 255.

Upon arrival, fire crews reported a moderate column of smoke coming from the reported area. When the first arriving crew made access to the fire they reported it to be approximately 70 feet by 70feet, wind driven, and spreading at a moderate rate. As other Arcata Fire crews arrived at scene they split up to attack the multiple flanks of the fire. The fire was contained within five minutes and controlled within 30 minutes of being at scene.

The cause of the fire is unknown at this time but is currently being investigated. No injuries were reported. The total acreage burned was .16 acres.

Arcata Fire District responded with three engines, one water tender, one chief officer, six career firefighters, three volunteer firefighters and one Volunteer Logistic Unit member. Arcata Police Department also responded to assist with logistics.

Given the warm weather and dry conditions, Arcata Fire District reminds residents to help keep your home and property safe, by providing a defensible space around your property and home. For more information on defensible space or burning regulations, please contact

Arcata Fire District at 707-825-2000.