Bend’s Fire History

Examine significant local fires, both wildland and structural.

Retired Bend Fire Department Battalion Chief Dave Howe will give an overview of significant fires in the Bend area, both wildland and structural, including the modern Awbrey Hall and Skeleton fires. He’ll explain how those fires changed the way fires of that type are handled, and give tips for how Bend residents can raise their chances for protecting their homes.

Dave Howe came to Oregon in 1970, after attending college in Ohio, and 8 years later joined the Bend Fire Department where he worked for 42 years promoting through the ranks to Battalion Chief. In that time, he has responded to thousands of structure fires, wildland fires, hazmat incidents, motor vehicle accidents and emergency medical calls. In the last 6 years of his career, he was the Public Information Officer for Bend Fire and Rescue. Dave lives in Old Town Bend with his wife, Barbara Smiley, and they have three adult children scattered around the state.

Worthy Brewing (Eastside Main Pub)
 495 NE Bellevue Drive, Bend, OR 97701