BEND, OR -- A welding tool is blamed for a Friday afternoon fire that destroyed a Northwest Bend shed built in 1920. Firefighters responded to NW Delaware Street at about 4 p.m. While en route, a large column of smoke was visible and additional units were added.  On arrival, a working fire was found involving an outbuilding, deck, and a large travel trailer.  The fire was just beginning to extend  to the residence as crews arrived, and they were able to minimize the damage to the home and quickly knock down the fire.  

Complete extinguishment of the shed was challenging as the roof structure consisted of multiple layers of old roofing.  The 764 square foot home was built in 1915; the adjacent 120 square foot shed was constructed in 1920.  Damages are estimated at $60,000 to the structure, $50,000 to the contents, and $15,000 to the 2015 Forest River travel trailer.  

A man sleeping in the house at the time of the fire was awakened by a neighbor who alerted him to the fire.  Red Cross assistance was requested for the occupant.  

Investigators say the man had been welding earlier in the day and placed the hot welder on a combustible wood deck, up against the side of the shed.  Bend Fire & Rescue reminds everyone that anything which produces heat needs space around it.  This could include portable space heaters, fireplaces and woodstoves, even the kitchen stove.  Outdoors, items such as welders, grinders, and portable fire pits need space as well.  Never place any heat producing appliance on a combustible surface, such as a wood deck.  For more fire safety information, please visit their website.

Photos Courtesy Bend Fire