To the editor:

On July 31, while mowing a wide fire break around one of our structures, our mower struck a rock and started a grass fire. The wind drove the fire quickly across the tinder-dry hillside and we called 911.

The Bainbridge fire department responded immediately, and when they saw the fire, called on help from North Kitsap and Kingston fire departments. ‘

At one point that afternoon, we had 11 fire vehicles helping to bring the brush fire under control. Even so, it came within a few feet of spreading into trees and an old barn, threatening the wider neighborhood.

The firefighters stayed for hours, digging a perimeter firebreak, spraying fire retardant, and putting the fire out cold. They spent time talking with us, walking our property and offering to return if we wanted more help.

We can’t possibly find words to express our admiration and appreciation to all those fire professionals, but simply want to let the community know what capable and compassionate hands hold us in fire emergencies. Given our climate and weather conditions, greater knowledge about handling fires is necessary, and we are fortunate beyond words for their training and skills.

Thank you, everyone at Bainbridge, North Kitsap and Kingston fire departments. We rest easier knowing you’re out there, ready to serve.

CATHY AND WILL NICKUM

Bainbridge Island