Fire crews are monitoring an area in the 7000 block of Fletcher Bay Road where a brush fire broke out Thursday evening.

Crews from nearby agencies responded to assist with the fire that was reported around 5:30.

During the response, some residents were told to prepare for evacuation, but those notices were later lifted.

There was no damage to structures or any injuries.

Fire evacuation

Meanwhile, the Bainbridge Island Emergency Operations Center remains on standby to support wildfire response efforts.

Emergency notifications, including wildfire response and evacuation orders, will be shared with the public by text or email messaging via Nixle. To register for free Nixle alerts, text 98110 to 888777 or visit nixle.com.

During a wildfire on Bainbridge Island, community members may be given three types of orders.

*A “voluntary evacuation” means the threat to lives is not imminent but such circumstances may exist in the near future. It is “recommended” that people relocate to a safer location.

*A “mandatory evacuation” order means there is an imminent threat to life and property. People and their pets should evacuate.

Bainbridge Island is divided into 12 evacuation zones; making it important for every resident to “Know Your Zone”. Please see the city’s Wildfire Response webpage to learn more.

Burn ban continues

Also, due to rising fire danger the Kitsap County fire marshal this week expanded the burn ban to prohibit all outdoor fires. The ban is effective until further notice.

The move was prompted by several factors. Dry weather makes conditions ripe for ignition and fast fire spread. Multiple, local brush fires have underscored the danger. Large fires across the state have depleted all but local firefighting resources.

Fire Marshal David Lynam said, “The situation is serious, and we really need everyone’s help limiting all ignition sources.”

Examples include: Disposing of smoking materials properly and deferring mowing and avoiding using gas-powered lawn care items.

Poor air quality

Finally, the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency said poor air quality is expected this weekend from wildfire smoke. It is going to be “unhealthy for sensitive groups” or “unhealthy”.

Everyone should take precautions, especially infants, children, and people over 65, or those who are pregnant, have heart or lung diseases (such as asthma or COPD), respiratory infections, diabetes, stroke survivors and those suffering from COVID-19: Stay at home when possible; Limit activity outdoors, such as physical labor, sports or hobbies; Close windows; use recirculation mode for air conditioners; masks with the label “N95” or “N100” are most effective from air pollution, cloth masks don’t work.