At at 5:40 p.m. on July 25, the Orland Fire Department arrived at Wildwood Lane in response to reports of a small fire, downed trees, and electrical lines.

When firefighters arrived, the route was blocked by two trees that were twisted in utility cables. Insulation on adjacent communication wires had caught fire due to downed primary and neutral power lines. Rescue 581 and personal vehicles were used by three department personnel to respond. Until the power company arrived, workers used sand and soil from a safe distance to put out the little fire and prevent more damage.