At about 9:18 p.m. July 1, South King Fire and Rescue responded to reports of a fire near Pacific Highway South in Federal Way.

According to SKFR spokesman Brad Chaney, a fire in a homeless camp started a large blaze with black smoke clouds pouring from the tops of trees near 304th Street and Pacific Highway South.

Chaney said the fire was set back in the wooded area about 200 feet, with no damage to any nearby houses or property and no injuries reported.

SKFR crews were able to flank the fire and “make an aggressive knock-down” of the fire.

Crews remained on the scene two hours after dousing the blaze to make sure it was fully extinguished, he said.

“Fires in areas like this are usually caused by someone trying to cook food for themselves or just trying to stay warm,” Chaney said.

That’s why the City of Federal Way and Mayor Jim Ferrell have been working to support organizations like the Federal Way Day Center and FUSION, to help combat homelessness.

“Together they are trying to provide those basic necessities people need such as shelter, food, and a warm shower.”

Coverage of Sunday’s brush fire shows a map detailing Federal Way’s above average potential for wildfires for the 2019 summer season.