Elkhead Road Fire: Crews reported Friday morning that the Elkhead Road Fire stayed within the containment lines overnight and that things were looking really good on the fire. An engine and landowner rep are on scene of the fire today, mopping up hot spots within the fires perimeter.
A preliminary fire investigation for the Elkhead Road Fire indicates that the fire may be related to an escaped burn.
Hayhurst Road Fire: Crews working on the Hayhurst Road Fire reported that fire activity diminished overnight as expected, allowing them to complete hand line around the previously unlined portions of the fire. The fire is still estimated to be 50 acres but a more accurate size will be measured with GPS coordinates when time allows. With containment lines now in place around the entire blaze, firefighters have shifted their efforts to mop up operations. Today, crews will be working to extinguish the smoldering and burning material, starting at the containment lines and working their way into the interior of the fire. Smoke may be visible for several days as crews work to complete this task.
A preliminary fire investigation for the Hayhurst Road Fire indicates that the fire may be related to a rekindled slash burn that occurred this past winter.
The Elkhead Road Fire and the Hayhurst Road Fire sever as a timely reminder to homeowners and landowners who are using fire as a tool on their property. While there is not a burn ban in effect within the Douglas District at this time, fire officials with DFPA are encouraging people to refrain from burning until safer burning opportunities arise. Homeowners and landowners choosing to burn are also reminded that they are liable for fire suppression costs and associated damages if their burn escapes containment. If and when residents choose to burn debris piles, a fire trail should be constructed around the pile before ignition begins. Fire tools and water should also be on site while the burn is taking place and a responsible adult should stay with the burn until it is completely extinguished. Fire officials also ask those who have burned debris piles this past winter or spring to check the burned area to ensure that the pile is completely out. If not properly extinguished, burn piles can smolder for weeks or even months before popping back to life on a warm, windy day.
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