GALICE, Ore. (June 8, 2021) – On Tuesday, June 8th at approximately 10:45 a.m., Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District resources responded to a structure fire at the Galice Resort alongside Rural Metro Fire. The fire originated in the building, but quickly spread to the wildland, igniting five small fires around the property.
Five ODF engines, a Type 2 helicopter and an air attack plane were all dispatched immediately. Engines and firefighters on the ground worked quickly to line and mop up the fires; accumulatively, 1/10 of an acre burned. Windy conditions contributed to the fire spreading beyond the structure, causing concern for nearby houses directly across the street; however, all fires were extinguished well before reaching those areas. As a precaution, residents self-evacuated. ODF resources will remain on scene to ensure any additional hotspots are found and extinguished. Meanwhile, the type 2 helicopter performed more than 20 bucket drops on the building itself, helping structural engines to extinguish the flames.
Rural Metro firefighters will be investigating the cause of the fire. ODF is thankful to our partner agencies, including Rural Metro Fire, County Fire Department, Grants Pass Fire Rescue, Rogue River Fire Department #1, Josephine County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police and Josephine County Roads Department. Our strong partnerships allow us to tackle these complex incidents quickly, safely and effectively.
Fire updates are always available on Facebook, @ODFSouthwest.