August 18, 2020 3:10 a.m. (updated 4:30 a.m.)

On Monday, Governor Kate Brown visited the site of the Mosier Fire in Wasco County.

A release said the Governor received a briefing, visited the fine line, met with a family whose home was lost, and saw firsthand the COVID fire module in action.

The release said the COVID module is a new tool for firefighting during the pandemic. The tool allows firefighters to focus on firefighting, while the members of the module, focus on education, prevention, and mitigation of possible COVID cases for firefighting resources.

Brown said she wanted to “…thank the incredible men and women on the frontlines fighting to protect the homes and livelihoods of so many in Wasco County’. Brown said residents must continue to remain vigilant and do all they can to prevent additional wildfires, “…especially since 90 percent of all wildfires this season are human caused”. Brown said that means a higher likelihood of wildfires that can wreak havoc on homes, neighborhoods, and Oregon’s “…precious natural areas”. Brown said burn bans should be followed and fire safety should be practiced.

Crews at the fire mobilized by the Office of State Fire Marshal returned home on Monday, releasing the delegation of structure responsibilities to local fire authorities. Mop-up continues on the fire. It has covered 985 acres and is 65 percent contained. 36 structures were destroyed by the fire, according to the Oregon State Fire Marshal.