Bar patrons grab buckets, help protect building during miles of brush fires along I-5 in Marysville

Over 100 firefighters worked together to put out miles of brush fires along I-5 through Marysville Tuesday evening.

The fires have since been put out, but northbound I-5 was completely blocked.

The flames came dangerously close to several businesses, but many people stepped in to fend off the flames.

The manager and staff at Danny’s Midway Pub & Grill used buckets and hoses to protect the building. Some customers even jumped in to help.

“We started loading up some buckets and just kind of watching everything and making sure it didn’t get to the bar,” said manager Aubrey Butler. “It went up really quick.”

Marysville Fire District said witnesses started calling 911 shortly after 4:30 p.m. and reported as many as six brush fires along I-5 between mileposts 203 and 206.

“While en route, Marysville Fire District command staff began requesting additional resources due to the proximity of the fires to businesses along Smokey Point Boulevard. Wind contributed to the fast spread of flames,” said Marysville Fire District.

By 5:45 p.m., one lane of traffic was allowed through as crews tended to the flames.

“As the fires spread, community members used garden hoses and buckets of water to help firefighters protect businesses,” said Marysville Fire District.

Butler said it was ordinary people like the customers at the pub that helped make a difference.

Around 10:30 p.m., the fire was out.

The three-alarm fire eventually burned around 16 acres. Thankfully, no injuries were reported and no buildings were lost.

“I love it. It proves the fact that we’re like a family here,” said Butler.

“An incredible response like this is only possible because of strong relationships with our partner agencies, said Fire Chief Ned Vander Pol. “We want to emphasize our fire risk remains very high. Be extremely careful with any heat source and take steps to protect your home or business from wildland fires.”