A Coupeville homeowner’s attempt to prevent a fire danger instead accidently caused one.

Central Whidbey Fire & Rescue responded to a call of a vegetation fire Aug. 6 at the rear of a residence on Sandberg Lane that was set by a spark from a riding lawnmower.

The fire spread at a moderate rate of speed and burned about an acre of light brush in a wooded area before it was quickly brought under control,  Central Whidbey fire chief Ed Hartin said.

A brush unit from South Whidbey Fire/EMS also assisted in the effort.

“It’s a little bit ironic,” Hartin said. “The homeowner was cutting tall grass to provide a defenseable space in case of a brushfire.”

Hartin said that residents should use caution when working with power equipment in an area of dry brush or grass.

The homeowner acted properly by calling 911 right away to allow units to react quickly to contain the fire as it climbed a hillside, Hartin said.

Units remained on the scene for about three hours to mop up and dig out hot spots, he said.

“It wasn’t a huge fire,” Hartin said. “Fortunately, the guys caught it before it went upslope.”