Fire crews began suppressing the Lake Creek and Sassy Wildfires on Thursday and should wrap up suppression activities early in the weekend. Suppression tactics are intended to limit the spread of wildfires and to mitigate smoke impacts to nearby communities.
“Over the course of the last several years we have had many thoughtful discussions with local county/city leadership as well as the tourism industry about wildfire management and the subsequent smoke that communities experience,” said Terry Delay, Escalante District Ranger. “We are still trying to get a handle on the number and intensity of the small wildfires caused by the recent lightning storm. In order to limit smoke in our surrounding communities during the upcoming holiday festivities, we are taking immediate suppression action on all these fires.”
Wildfire always presents some uncertainty and unpredictability. Not all fires are managed the same way. In this case, we are actively suppressing the fires because we have multiple starts and feel that it is the best way to ensure public and firefighter safety – our number one concern. We are also very cognizant of the nuisance smoke can present to our communities during the holiday season.
These wildfires are a reminder that the wildfire season is probably upon us in the Color Country area of southern Utah. A few specific reminders:
Federal and state lands (including the entire Pine Valley Ranger District) are in fire restrictions.
o Campfires must be in approved fire rings, away from overhanging branches, steep slopes, rotten stumps, dry grass and leaves.
o Never leave a campfire unattended and drown your fire with water and dirt before leaving your campfire.
Fireworks of any kind are prohibited on federal and state lands in Utah. Check with your local fire department for local city/town regulations.
Now is the time to prepare your home for a wildfire. For suggestions on how to prepare go to www.firewise.org.
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