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Grasshopper Point Brush Fire

Sedona Fire Department brings Grasshopper Point brush fire under control

Sedona Fire District aided by Verde Valley Fire District and the USFS work to contain the Grasshopper Point fire

Sedona AZ (December 1, 2014) – At approximately 1:30 p.m., November 29, 2014, Sedona Fire District (SFD) emergency crews were contacted about smoke in the Grasshopper Point vicinity, a presently closed day-use area north of uptown Sedona, Arizona.

First responders, SFD crews from Fire Station #5 at Indian Gardens in the canyon, reported significant smoke visible from north State Highway 89A as they drove to the scene. Hiking down into the area, fire crews found approximately half an acre of actively burning brush and debris on the west side of Oak Creek, north of Grasshopper Point.

SFD crews immediately established a hand line around the perimeter of the fire. Utilizing water tenders from Sedona and soon on the scene Verde Valley Fire District, crews began suppressing the fire.

Sedona Fire District Fire Chief Kazian remarked, “Hearing of a fire near Grasshopper Point this time of year, I knew resources would be limited and terrain could be challenging. Initial crews accessed the area quickly and began to extinguish the fire. We were only able to get eight firefighters working for the first few hours based on other calls going on. I am very proud at the level of training and dedication our crews continually show whatever the call is for.”

SFD firefighter Isaiah Moore on the scene of a weekend canyon fire

SFD firefighter Isaiah Moore on the scene of a weekend canyon fire

Personnel from the U.S. Forest Service also responded to the scene. The fire was reported contained at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday night, and fully controlled by 11:00 a.m. on Sunday. The fire is currently being investigated as human caused.

Sedona Fire District Battalion Chief Jayson Coil reminds everyone, “Although this time of year we do not normally have to be concerned about wildfires, the above average temperatures and extreme dryness over the past couple months have created conditions which allow for rapid fire growth.”

Preparing for a wildfire starts with each of us. Following the steps below will enable local firefighters in the event of a community wildfire:

1. Reduce flammable vegetation, trees, and brush around your home.
2. Remove dead trees and prune low-hanging branches.
3. Cut grass and weeds regularly.
4. Relocate wood piles and leftover building materials away from structures.
5. Keep your roof and yard clean of pine needles, leaves and debris.

For more Fire Wise protection information or to schedule a free wildfire home safety assessment, contact the Sedona Fire District at (928) 282-6800 or a fire department nearest you.

For the best Arizona news and views, read www.SedonaEye.com daily!

For the best Arizona news and views, read www.SedonaEye.com daily!

3 Comments

  1. shared a link to the group Cottonwood AZ (Todays News and Events)

  2. That’s the worst news!? This time of year and after rain! Thanks for sharing I’ll read it now.

  3. Poor Sedona needs a break!

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