Firefighters have contained a seven-acre wildland fire in the West Sound/Deer Harbor area that began on the afternoon of July 8.

According to the National Interagency Fire Center, a fire was reported at 3:34 p.m. Multiple DNR helicopters were on scene and Orcas Island Fire and Rescue is being assisted by San Juan, Lopez and Shaw fire departments.

As of 6:30 p.m. on July 8, the fire was fully contained at approximately 7 acres, though there is still active burning within the perimeter and fire operations are ongoing.

The residents of Melba Lane and Bobbyann Road who were asked to evacuate during fire operations returned home, but were asked to steer well clear of active fire operations. No other individuals should approach the area at this time.

Responders request that no one fly drones anywhere near the fire. Helicopters have been actively fighting the fire and their operations are immediately halted if a drone is confirmed on scene.

There is no official cause of the fire at this time but all island residents and visitors are reminded that fires are always a possibility in the summer and extreme care and vigilance are required to avoid ignitions. For more info on wildland fire safety, visit https://www.islandsready.org/wildfires or contact your local fire department.