Bend, OR. — Bend Fire & Rescue crews responded to a structure fire at a single-family residence in northeast Bend after three occupants awoke to signs of smoke and discovered the home’s wood-shake roof was burning.
One resident reported waking to the smell of smoke before hearing alarms and seeing an orange glow outside. He found the roof on fire, quickly alerted the other two occupants, and all three safely evacuated without injury.
Firefighters arrived within minutes and brought the fire under control in about 30 minutes. The flames were contained to the roof and did not penetrate into the interior of the home.
Investigators determined the fire began at the woodstove flue, which appeared original to the residence. Over time, radiant heat likely charred surrounding wood shake shingles, eventually igniting the roof materials. The entire roof will need to be replaced with a fire-rated material such as asphalt, composition, or metal. Damage estimates are not yet available.
Bend Fire & Rescue noted that home heating equipment—including woodstoves and fireplaces—is the leading cause of residential fires in Oregon, contributing to roughly 450 incidents each year. Homeowners are encouraged to ensure flues are clear of debris and to have heating equipment inspected before seasonal use. For additional safety guidance, contact Bend Fire & Rescue at 541-322-6300.
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