North Summit crews respond to multiple fires, including explosion in Coalville

North Summit Fire District respond to a brush fire near Wanship in February 2026. Photo: North Summit Fire

COALVILLE, Utah — A series of fires across northern Summit County on Sunday is prompting concern from fire officials as the region heads into an early fire season. Crews responded to a runaway agricultural burn, a reported brush fire, and a structure fire with an explosion that left one person critically injured.

Crews with the North Summit Fire District were first dispatched around 4 p.m. to an agricultural burn near River Bend Road in Wanship that had spread beyond its intended boundaries. Firefighters worked to contain the blaze and prevent further spread as dry conditions continue to impact the area.

While still engaged in Wanship, crews were called at approximately 5:30 p.m. to a reported brush fire on East Henefer Road in Henefer. Upon arrival, firefighters determined the fire was a controlled agricultural burn that had been reported by a passerby. The property owner had the situation under control, and no additional resources were needed.

Later that evening, at approximately 7:45 p.m., crews responded to a more serious incident in Coalville. A structure fire and explosion was reported on East 150 South, where firefighters found a shed that had exploded.

One individual sustained critical burn injuries and was transported by medical helicopter to a burn center in the Salt Lake Valley. The fire was extinguished and the scene secured. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation.

“These incidents highlight how quickly conditions can change, especially with agricultural burns,” said Battalion Chief Tyler Rowser. “We appreciate our partner agencies for their support and want to remind residents to take extra precautions and ensure fires are properly managed and monitored at all times.”

The incidents come as Summit County prepares for the possibility of early-season fire restrictions. North Summit Fire District Chief Neilson is expected to request that the Summit County Council submit a formal request to the State Forester to enact fire restrictions in unincorporated areas beginning May 1, 2026. Similar requests have also been made to Henefer Town and Coalville City.

Fire officials say conditions across the region are already drying out, increasing the risk of human-caused fires and particularly from agricultural burns, which are common this time of year.

In unincorporated areas of Summit County, fire restrictions enacted in 2025 began June 1, limiting open burning and emphasizing strict compliance with safety measures. This year, officials are hoping to enact fire restrictions by May 1 due to early fire risks.

Residents are encouraged to check local regulations before conducting any burns, maintain constant supervision of permitted fires, and ensure adequate tools and water are available to quickly contain flames.

North Summit Fire District officials emphasize that even routine or controlled burns can quickly become dangerous under the right conditions, and vigilance now can help prevent more serious incidents as fire season approaches.