Crews continue to fight area fires

CLARK FORK — Firefighter and public safety are the primary objectives for crews fighting the Buckskin 2 Fire near Clark Fork.

While an infrared flight to map the fire has not yet occurred due to the number of fires around the country, officials said the fire has burned an estimated 185 acres.

"The primary objectives for fire officials managing the Buckskin 2 Fire are firefighter and public safety while working to keep it as small as possible," public information officer Joshua Baker said in a daily update on the fire.

Crews have begun to build direct handlines along the east and west flanks of the fire, while dozers are constructing indirect line on the north and south side of the fire.

The fire remains roughly 1.8 miles from the nearest residence, Baker said. Toward that end, fire crews began assessing structure protection work in the Dry Creek area.

Monday, crews noted that fire was active with some single and group tree torching. Aircraft is being shared with fires around the area, Baker said.

Residents of Twin Creek and Rearden areas are under “Ready” status of the the ‘Ready, Set, Go’ evacuation planning stages. Under the status, residents are advised to have a plan to evacuate if necessary. “Set” status asks residents to begin putting their plan into place. Under “Go” status, residents are told to leave immediately due to an imminent threat.

As part of their preparations, residents should prepare a plan where they will go for a few days if evacuated. They also should gather important documents, a three-day supply of food and water, first aid kits and a three-day supply of clothing among other items. They should have the items packed and ready, and they should think about what evacuation route they will take, make sure their vehicles are fueled, and to have a plan for pets and livestock.

There are 80 personnel assigned to the fire, which was reported Aug. 4. There are seven engines assigned to the fire, two hand crews, three firefighter modules and a dozer crew. Type 3 incident commander John Ramsey

Consalus Fire

The Consalus Fire, which has burned an estimated 475 acres, remains 70% contained, USFS officials said.

Crews continue to patrol and monitor the fire while working to complete the tasks outlined in the suppression repair plan.

The Consalus Fire, located 10 miles west of Coolin, Idaho, in Pend Oreille County, Wash., was reported on June 30. The fire, which has burned an estimated 471 acres, is 70% contained. There are 64 fire personnel assigned to the fire.

Information: inciweb.nwcg.gov