Bend Fire & Rescue, in partnership with the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training, announced a live‑fire training exercise scheduled for Monday, November 2, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The drill will take place at North Station, located at 63377 NE Jamison St., and is designed to simulate hazardous liquid‑fuel incidents.
Purpose of the exercise
The training will use a specially built prop that produces high flames and thick smoke, replicating the conditions firefighters face when responding to flammable liquid fires. By practicing in a controlled environment, Bend’s firefighters can refine tactics, improve safety protocols, and enhance coordination with other emergency‑response agencies.
Public notice and safety
Department officials issued an advance notice to let community members know the fire is a planned exercise. Residents are asked not to call 911 to report the flames or smoke, as the incident is not an actual emergency. The visible fire and smoke are expected to be seen from Highway 20 and nearby neighborhoods, but the department assures that the drill will be conducted safely and will not pose a risk to the public.
Media access
Bend Fire & Rescue is inviting local news outlets to attend the drill for photo and video coverage. Makayla Oliver, communications manager for Bend Fire & Rescue, will coordinate media access and answer any inquiries. The department hopes the coverage will highlight the professionalism and preparedness of Bend’s emergency‑services teams.
Community impact
Live‑fire drills such as this one are a critical component of public‑safety readiness. They allow firefighters to test equipment, evaluate response times, and identify any gaps in training before real incidents occur. For residents, the exercise underscores the city’s commitment to protecting families and property from fire hazards.
What to expect
- Flames and smoke visible from major thoroughfares, especially Highway 20.
- Controlled environment with safety crews on standby.
- No disruption to normal traffic or neighborhood activities.
- Opportunity for local media to capture the event.
Officials encourage anyone who sees the drill to remain calm and avoid calling emergency services. The fire department will monitor the situation closely and will conclude the exercise by 8 p.m., after which the area will be cleared and normal operations will resume.
Contact information
For additional details, residents may contact Bend Fire & Rescue’s public information office at (541) 555‑1234 or email [email protected]. Media inquiries should be directed to Makayla Oliver at (541) 555‑9876.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
