Two rivers. Complex emergencies. A commitment to answering the call.

The Columbia and Umatilla rivers are central to our community—and present a demanding emergency response environment. Strong currents, cold water, changing water levels, commercial vessel traffic, and difficult shoreline access can turn an ordinary day on the water into a life-threatening emergency.

Umatilla Fire responds to water rescue and swiftwater incidents on both rivers, along with vessel fires and emergencies along the waterfront. Our response area includes the Umatilla Marina, Port of Umatilla, and the Oregon-side waterfront associated with McNary Dam and Locks. We coordinate with neighboring jurisdictions and facility personnel when incidents involve shared waterways or extend beyond district boundaries.

Water Rescue & Swiftwater Response

Our personnel train for emergencies involving people in distress, overturned watercraft, and patients in locations that cannot be reached by conventional fire apparatus. Crews evaluate currents, access, weather, and other hazards to select a rescue approach appropriate to their training, equipment, and available personnel.

Boat 11 provides access to areas beyond the shoreline and supports rescue, patient movement, and marine firefighting operations. Shore-based crews support these efforts with scene coordination, medical care, and assistance moving patients to responding ambulance personnel.

Vessel Fires & Waterfront Protection

A fire aboard a boat or along a marina can spread quickly, threatening neighboring vessels, docks, fuel systems, and nearby property. Boat 11’s onboard fire pump supports water application from the river, while land-based crews establish access, deploy hose lines, and coordinate additional resources.

Marine incidents require careful attention to vessel stability, electrical hazards, fuel, smoke, and the safety of people on docks and surrounding boats. Our crews work with marina operators, port representatives, facility personnel, and responding agencies to address these hazards and protect the waterfront.

Capabilities, Staffing & Regional Support

Umatilla Fire operates one response boat, with two career firefighters on duty each day, augmented by available resident interns, volunteers, and a duty officer. Marine emergencies often require personnel working both on the water and along the shore, making early resource coordination essential.

Our ability to launch the boat and conduct rescue or firefighting operations depends on qualified personnel, water conditions, equipment availability, and other emergency calls occurring within the district. When additional capability is needed, we request neighboring fire agencies and other appropriate marine response resources.

We approach every marine emergency with urgency and a clear understanding of the conditions. Our responsibility is to bring the strongest safe response we can, coordinate help early, and give people in danger the best possible chance of coming home.