Wildfire task force led by Bothell firefighter

Wildfire Task Force with Leader Jim Vandertoorn of Bothell Fire

When the Old Trails and Autumn Lane fires rapidly expanded, the pre-positioned task force was ready to respond.

Bothell’s own BC Jim Vandertoorn, who served as a Task Force Leader, shared his first hand perspective, noting that in more than 30 years as a Washington firefighter, he had not encountered fire behavior or destruction comparable to what crews experienced.

Crews conducted structure protection, extinguished spot fires, and supported coordinated suppression efforts to protect homes and communities. BC Vandertoorn credited the pre-positioning of the task force in Cle Elum with reducing response time and helping protect numerous residences.

He also recognized the crews from Gig Harbor Fire, Bremerton Fire, Eastside Fire & Rescue, South Kitsap Fire, Bainbridge Island Fire, and Browns Point Fire for their teamwork and commitment during a demanding 40-hour operational period.