Suppression efforts continue on approximately seven lightning-caused fires across the region managed by the Susanville Interagency Fire Center. Additional resources from surrounding areas are arriving to assist on these incidents as needed.
The largest of these – the Coleman fire – is currently reported at 1140 acres. It is located in northwest Nevada, 25 miles east of Fort Bidwell and approximately two miles south of the Oregon border near Coleman Canyon on BLM land. One medium helicopter, two hand crews, one dozer, and a strike team of engines are working to contain this fire. Air tankers have been requested.
Another fire is about two acres; the others are less than an acre in size. They are located just north of Eagle Lake in the Cave Mountain, Dow Butte, and Big Jack Lake areas. Currently all fires are staffed.
For the Coleman fire area, the National Weather Service has extended the Red Flag Warning through Wednesday at 11:00 p.m. The forecast shows hot, dry conditions with the possibility of more dry lightning.
Northeast California fire officials are reminding area residents and visitors to be careful with fire and fireworks when they celebrate Independence Day. Fire restrictions, as well as a burn ban, are in place across northern California.
“After our abnormally dry winter, conditions are drying out quickly,” said Gary Zack, a manager at the Susanville Interagency Fire Center. “People need to be extremely careful when camping, driving in the back country and cutting firewood,” he said.
Those planning outdoor trips should also follow these fire safety tips:
- Keep campfires small, and completely extinguish them before leaving camp. The best method is to douse the fire with water, stir the ashes and douse again, making sure all ashes are cold to the touch.
- Charcoal should be soaked in water after use.
- Smokers should light up only in areas cleared of all flammable debris. Cigarette butts should never be thrown from vehicle windows.
- Those exploring the forests and back country in vehicles must stay on established roads and trails and avoid driving over dry brush and grass that could be ignited by hot exhaust systems.
- Firewood cutters should operate chainsaws only in the cool morning hours and keep a shovel and fire extinguisher nearby. Chainsaws must be equipped with spark arresters.
Information on current fire dangers and restrictions on using fires and equipment is available from any office of the Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, or CAL FIRE. Local fire departments also have information on fire dangers, restrictions, and local fireworks regulations.
