Fuel Tanks Catch Fire in Pine Haven

Firefighters contain blaze to fuel storage area with help from multiple departments

Mar. 26, 2026 at 12:00am

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A fire broke out at a fuel storage area in Pine Haven, Wyoming on the evening of March 18, 2026. The Pine Haven Fire Department responded along with several other local fire departments. Firefighters were able to contain the blaze to the fuel storage area and prevent it from spreading to nearby structures and vegetation.

Why it matters

Fuel storage facilities pose a significant fire risk, especially in dry, windy conditions. The quick response and coordination between multiple fire departments helped minimize the damage from this incident, highlighting the importance of preparedness and emergency planning in rural communities.

The details

The fire was caused by an accidental ignition during a fueling operation at the fuel storage area located on Pine Ridge in Pine Haven. The location and fuel content of the storage area prompted the Pine Haven Fire Department to call in additional resources from surrounding fire departments, including Carlile Fire Zone #16, Moorcroft Fire Department, Sundance Fire Department, and Crook County Fire. After an hour of containing the fire to the storage area, the firefighters were able to begin mop-up operations.

  • The fire was reported just before 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.
  • Firefighters were able to contain the blaze to the fuel storage area within an hour.

The players

Pine Haven Fire Department

The local fire department that responded to the initial call and coordinated the multi-agency firefighting effort.

Carlile Fire Zone #16

One of the neighboring fire departments that provided additional resources to help contain the fire.

Moorcroft Fire Department

One of the neighboring fire departments that provided additional resources to help contain the fire.

Sundance Fire Department

One of the neighboring fire departments that provided additional resources to help contain the fire.

Crook County Fire

One of the neighboring fire departments that provided additional resources to help contain the fire.

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What they’re saying

“Use extreme caution, especially on these red flag days – don't become an ignition source.”

— TJ Gideon, Pine Haven Fire Chief

“A way to help protect your home is to create a defensible space. Methods to do this include trimming dead branches, removing dry leaves and keeping brush away from structures.”

— TJ Gideon, Pine Haven Fire Chief

What’s next

The Pine Haven Fire Department is planning to hold a defensible space training for the public in the fall to educate residents on the importance of creating a defensible space around their homes and how to do it effectively.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the critical role that coordinated emergency response and community preparedness can play in mitigating the risks posed by fuel storage facilities and other fire hazards, especially in rural areas. By working together and empowering residents to create defensible spaces, local fire departments can help keep their communities safe.