8/11/2015 Baldy Fire Update

Baldy Fire moves into the “mop-up” stage, but extreme hot and dry weather ahead has potential to increase fire behavior.

 Ione, Wash. – Firefighters on the Baldy Fire are cautiously optimistic as they are moving into mop-up, the final stage of their suppression effort.

“Mop-up” is one of the most important jobs that firefighters do.  It is also one of the most difficult and dirty parts of the job.  Personnel methodically search out hot spots near the fire’s edge and use hand tools and water to dig and stir until the fire is completely out. Getting water to the fire’s edge has been a big challenge.  Portable pumps, ten water-hauling vehicles, and miles of hose are now on the site to assist with mop-up.

“We’re getting this fire licked,” said Fire Behavior Analyst Dean Warner, “but with the rising temperatures and lower humidity coming, we have the ingredients to produce some fire behavior that we haven’t seen yet.”

Warner emphasized that interior burning will continue and the possibility exists that this renewed fire activity could throw burning embers across containment lines.  Firefighters will be working hard today to minimize that risk.  Containment lines are being improved and mop-up around containment lines is progressing.

Fire officials are preparing rehabilitation plans for the fire, including the construction of water bars for erosion control on dozer fire lines.  Resource advisors have evaluated the work being done throughout the fire area and are satisfied with the attention given to protecting Cedar and Jim Creeks and their tributaries.

Last night distant lightning could be seen from the fire.  Fortunately, this activity did not occur in the immediate area.  However, two 20-person crews and a dozer have been designated to respond to requests to support initial attack efforts should new fires be detected in the area.

Fire Size:   535 acres

Location:  Six miles northwest of Ione, WA

Fire Start Date: 8/1/15

Cause: Under investigation

Hazards: Dangerous snags, heavy ‘jackstraw’ ground fuels, steep terrain, helicopter operations, remote location, lack of safety zones and escape routes, poor access

Values at Risk: Power lines east and south of the fire, private property, fish habitat, water resources, timber, structures

Containment: 35%

Resources: 

4 Type I Crews

6 Type II Crews

3 Engines

1 Type I Helicopter

1 Type II Helicopter

1 Type III Helicopter

2 Air Attack Platforms

Additional air support available as needed

2 Dozers

8 Water tenders

2 Skidgeons

Personnel: 439

Area Closures: Area surrounding the Baldy Fire is closed to vehicle and foot traffic

Industrial Fire Precaution Level 3 All zones: No Chainsaw Use in Forest