At around 10:50 am, Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue crews received several calls referencing a brushfire along Highway 3, North of Highway 303. CKF&R responded with 12 units to the scene.

As firefighters responded they observed that it was actually several separate fires to the east along the half mile stretch of Highway 3 North to the Trigger Avenue exit.

A second alarm was called at 10:58 a.m.

Each fire was approximately 100 feet long and 25 feet deep, but never extended past the fence to the Clear Creek Trail area.

Two northbound lanes of Highway 3 were shut down, leaving traffic only one lane to pass. The fires were extinguished and overhaul began at 11:22 a.m. and the scene was cleared of all units at 12:17 p.m.

Initial reports indicate the fire may have been started by an automobile malfunction.

Crews from Navy Region Northwest and the Poulsbo Fire Department also responded.

Kitsap County currently has a Phase 1 burn ban in effect that applies to all outdoor burning except for small recreational fires in established fire pits at approved camp grounds or private property with the owner’s permission. The use of gas and propane self-contained stoves and barbeques will continue to be allowed under the ban.

This ban remains in effect until further notice.