Five houses were lost in the Bofer Canyon Fire on Saturday. Many more homes were threatened but managed to still stand.
The Bofer Canyon Fire moved so quickly through south Kennewick, fire crews didn't have time to make it to houses getting stuck in the path of the blaze.
Fire officials said a defensible space around homes helped save several homes.
"We want to encourage people to create defensive spaces which are green lawns that are well hydrated, vegetation that is not touching your house and vegetation that is green,” said Capt. Brian Ellis with Kennewick Fire Department.
Adam Klei almost lost his house. If it weren't for the elaborate terraces and greenery in the backyard, neighbors wouldn't have had enough time to grab the hose and get to work.