Sedona AZ (May 17, 2012) – The Sedona Fire District received the following orders effective immediately reports Gary Johnson, Sedona Fire Marshal and Public Information Officer to the SedonaEye.com: Fire updates will be posted as comments to this story as received.
- A Type 6 Engine with a crew of three to the Gladiator Fire near Crown King. This is commonly referred to as a brush truck. Engineer Eric Lewis and firefighters Todd Miranda and Kai Kincheloe are assigned to this unit.
- A Helicopter Short Haul medic that will stage with DPS Air Rescue to provide medical support to the Gladiator and the Sunflower Fire. Firefighter and Paramedic Shawn Foster is assigned to this unit.
- Battalion Chief Jayson Coil is assigned to the Gladiator Fire. Chief Coil is assigned to a Type 1 incident team assigned to the fire.
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Travel Alert: Heavy smoke present near SR 69 east of Cordes Junction – Expect reduced speed limit along SR 87 near Sunflower Fire base camp
PHOENIX – Smoke from the Gladiator Fire near Crown King has reduced visibility on State Route 69 east of Cordes Junction (mileposts 265-275), according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.
At this time, the highway is not closed, however ADOT advises drivers to slow down, remain alert and use caution in this area. Drivers may also consider delaying their travel, if possible.
ADOT is also temporarily reducing the speed limit on State Route 87 (Duthie-Martin Highway) from 65 mph to 45 mph in both directions between mileposts 191 and 193, to help fire crews and supply vehicles merging with other traffic as they enter and exit the Sunflower Fire base camp north of Fountain Hills.
As crews continue to battle the blaze, there is a steady flow of traffic in and out of the base camp, located on the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation just north of the Verde River. The reduced speed limit will assist vehicles merging into SR 87 traffic. Drivers traveling between the Valley and the Payson area also should watch for other traffic control devices in place to aid fire-fighting vehicles merging and turning into the base camp.
The following tips are recommended for driving in reduced visibility due to smoke from wildfires:
Check traffic immediately around your vehicle (front, back and to the side) and begin slowing down.
Do not stop in the travel lane unless the vehicle traffic in front of you has come to a stop.
Look for a safe place to pull completely off the paved portion of the roadway.
Stop the vehicle in a position ensuring it is a safe distance from the main roadway and not near where any vehicles may travel.
Turn off all vehicle lights.
Set your emergency brake and take the foot off the brake.
Stay in the vehicle and keep your seat belts on.
Wait for the visibility to improve before re-entering the roadway.
Gladiator Fire – Update 5/22/12
Donations – The Yavapai County Emergency Operations Center, as well as the American Red Cross and others working to support the firefighting efforts, have spoken heard from people who want to know where they can drop off donations. While donations are greatly appreciated, the immediate needs of evacuees are being addressed. When the time comes and their specific needs are determined, a collection location will be identified and announced to the public.
People wanting to make financial contributions to non-governmental agencies that support disaster recovery can do so through the Arizona Organizations Active in Disaster (Arizona VOAD) Wildfires & Floods Recovery Fund. Donations can be made thru the Arizona Ecumenical Council website (www.aecunity.net) by clicking on the Wildfires & Floods Recovery Fund link. The AEC is a 501 (c)(3), tax deductible organization, with all funds going to survivor recovery efforts.
Volunteers – When well-intentioned people show up spontaneously at a dangerous fire scene, that offer of help can lead to unsafe situations for both the public and the firefighters. Members of the public are asked to avoid the areas where fires are actively burning.
Organizations that are always accepting volunteers and would appreciate hearing from those with time and a desire to help include the American Red Cross and the Yavapai County Medical Reserve Corps.
The American Red Cross can be reached by going online to ArizonaRedCross.org or calling 602-336-6660.
The Yavapai County Medical Reserve Corps can be reached by going to YavapaiHealth.com or calling (928) 442-5487.
Smoke- The smoke in many of our local towns may appear to be improving but as the wind shifts things can change quickly. Anyone with a heart or lung condition, asthma, COPD, or emphysema may be sensitive to pollutants in the air and should still consider limiting their time outside to a minimum. Keep doors and windows closed whenever possible and immediately seek help if you start to feel sick or disoriented. For up to the minute information on the air quality in your area go to http://www.phoenixvis.net/PPMmain.aspx
Size: Approximately 15,622 acres Containment: 26%
Cause: Human caused; originated from a structure fire on private property
Terrain: Steep, rugged, brushy with very difficult access
Resources: 13 Type-1 Crews, 16 Type-2 Crews, 43 Engines, 37 Water Tenders, 5 Dozers, 6 Type 1 Helicopters, 2 Type 2 Helicopters, 2 Type 3 Helicopters,
Total no. of personnel: 1,151 personnel
Injuries to date: 7 Structures destroyed: 6
There will be an informal community gathering at 6 pm, Wednesday, May 23 at the Mayer High School, 17300 East Mule Deer Drive, Spring Valley, AZ. A fire update will be provided.
HOT, WINDY AND DRY AGAIN TODAY
Strong Southwest winds will dominate, as red flag warnings continue through today. The winds will start earlier today and will continue to get stronger as the day progresses. Low humidity and high temperatures are expected again today and contribute to extreme fire behavior.
Heavy fuels will continue to burn in the interior of the fire. Firefighters will continue to monitor for spot fires from flying embers outside of the fire lines.
Firefighters continue to reinforce and strengthen fire lines and continue to hold the 92 Road. Work will continue along the Senator Highway, to strengthen the contingency line.
Rehabilitation efforts have begun on the fire area to restore and stabilize areas disturbed by suppression activities.
The evacuation order remains in effect for the community of Crown King, and the Battle Flat, Pine Flat, and Turkey Creek areas.
Be aware that rumors of evacuations are abundant. Only evacuation orders issued by the Sheriff’s Office are valid.
For questions about Evacuations and Roadblocks contact the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office at 928-713-2709.
An expanded Closure Order is in effect, as of May 20, 2012 at 6 p.m., for all Prescott National Forest, Bradshaw Ranger District land south of the following: Beginning at the southwest corner, Township 12 North, Range 3 West, Section 33; south of River Pasture, along Forest Road 72 west to FS Road 667, following Middlewater Creek to the south of Maverick Mountain, east to Forest Road 9403C and onto Forest Road 52B connecting to the Senator Highway (County Road 56). Senator Highway east continuing to FS Road 261 east of Mount Union Lookout towards County Road 58 through Breezy Pines, extending to Poland Junction.
· All roads leading into the community of Crown King are closed.
· Cleator – Crown King Road (County Road 59) is closed at Cleator.
· Senator Highway to Crown King (County Road 56) is closed at the junction with Poland Rd. (County Road 58). .
· Mayer-Bolada Road (County Road 177) is closed at the Forest Boundary.
· Forest Road 711 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Cow Creek
· Forest Road 362 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Wagner.
· Forest Road 192 is closed
A Yavapai County fire ban is in effect across all fire ban zones. Prescott National Forest Campfire and Smoking Restrictions are also in effect. For AZ Fire Info & Restrictions Information call 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
· Gladiator Fire Information: 928-632-4368 or 928-632-4420 (7am to 10pm)
· Prescott National Forest Fire Information Hotline: 928-777-5799 (recorded message)
· Gladiator Fire Incident Website: http://www.inciweb.org or http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott
For smoke information and air quality forecasts, visit http://www.azfireinfo.com/links.asp#Smoke
Gladiator Fire Update for May 31, 2012 – Approximately 16,240 acres
Containment: 70%
Cause: Human caused; originated from a structure fire on private property
Cost: $14 million
Terrain: Steep, rugged, brushy with very difficult access
Resources: 1 Type-2 Crew; 7 Engines; 1 Water Tender; 1 Dozer; 1 Type 3 Helicopter
Total no. of personnel: 115 personnel Injuries to date: 8 Structures destroyed: 6
NOTE: The Next Release Will Be On Monday, June 4
Insignificant fire behavior was observed as crews continue to patrol and mop-up. As small pockets of fuels continue to smolder some smoke will be visible in the community of Crown King and Pine Flat.
Drive Slow! Expect Delays!
Firefighters and equipment are actively working in the area!
County Road 59 into Crown King is open to the public. Visitors are reminded to be cautious, slow-down and drive defensively. Be aware of your surroundings, heavy equipment along roadways, fire equipment and 4-wheelers in the community.
Forest Closure Remains in Effect:
This closure includes the Forest Service land south of the following on the Bradshaw Ranger District: Beginning at the southwest corner, Township 12 North, Range 3 West, Section 33; south of River Pasture, along Forest Road 72 west to FS Road 667, following Middlewater Creek to the south of Maverick Mountain, east to Forest Road 9403C and onto Forest Road 52B connecting to the Senator Highway (County Road 56). Senator Highway east continuing to FS Road 261 east of Mount Union Lookout towards County Road 58 through Breezy Pines, extending to Poland Junction.
· Forest lands and roads past Crown King remain closed including road 52 to the Horsethief Basin area.
· Pine Flat and Turkey Creek is open to full-time residents and property owners.
· Senator Highway to Crown King (County Road 56) is closed at the junction with Poland Rd. (County Road 58).
· Mayer-Goodwin Road (County Road 177) is closed at the Forest Boundary.
· Forest Road 711 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Cow Creek.
· Forest Road 362 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Wagoner.
· Forest Road 192 is closed.
A Yavapai County fire ban is in effect across all fire ban zones. Prescott National Forest Campfire and Smoking Restrictions are also in effect. For AZ Fire Info & Restrictions Information call 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov. Follow the SedonaEye.com for updates.
Gladiator Fire Update – June 8, 2012
Size: Approximately 16,240 acres
Containment: 90%
Cause: Human caused; originated from a structure fire on private property
Cost: $14 million
Terrain: Steep, rugged, brushy with very difficult access
Resources: 4 Engines
Total no. of personnel: 21 personnel Injuries to date: 8 Structures destroyed: 6
NOTE: The Next Release Will Be On Wednesday, June 13
Insignificant fire behavior has been observed all week. Crews are still finding and extinguishing smoldering fuels in the interior as they continue to mop-up. Fire personnel will continue to patrol and monitor the perimeter this weekend for hot-spots and hazardous trees damaged by the fire.
Forest Closure Area Reduced
The following area is closed to the public as described below including the perimeter of the Gladiator Fire and all access points leading in the fire area:
Senator Highway (County Road 56): Beginning at the intersection of Senator Highway and Forest Road (FR) 89, legal description of Township 11 North, Range 1 West, Section 4, heading south along Senator Highway to the intersection of Senator Highway and FR 362 (Hooper Saddle).
Gladiator Fire Perimeter: All known access points, roads and trails leading into the affected fire area will be closed. Affects Forest Trails: 131, 202, 215, 216, 225, and 275. Affects Forest Roads: 89, 92, 9240A and 9268M.
The following persons are exempt from the closure:
1. Residents or persons with a Forest Service permit specifically authorizing the otherwise prohibited act or omission.
2. Any Federal, State or local officer or member of any organized rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty.
3. Persons engaged in a business, trade or occupation in the area, who are authorized by the U.S. Forest Service, the State of Arizona , or the County of Yavapai and its employees, agents, contractors and subcontractors.
Current Fire Restrictions for the Prescott NF
The following fire restrictions will go into effect Friday, June 8, 2012, at 8:00 am for the entire Prescott National Forest :
· The use of campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires (wood, charcoal, and coal burning) are prohibited on all Prescott National Forest lands. This now includes developed campsites and campgrounds.
· Use of explosives is prohibited.
· Smoking is prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle or building.
· Operating a chainsaw, or other equipment powered by an internal combustion engine, is prohibited between the hours of 9:00 am to 8:00 pm. During acceptable hours, please have 5-10 ft. clearance around your generators and other internal combustible engines.
· Welding or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame is prohibited.
· Discharging a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun is prohibited except while engaged in a lawful hunt
The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns or heating devices is allowed, providing such devices meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety.
The public is reminded that fireworks and operating or using any internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained, and in effective working are always prohibited on all national forest lands.
A Yavapai County fire ban is in effect across all fire ban zones. For AZ Fire Info & Restrictions Info rmation call 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov.
The public can obtain fire information updates on http://www.SedonaEye.com or via the following:
· Prescott National Forest Fire Info rmation Hotline: 928-777-5799 (recorded message)
· Gladiator Fire Incident Website: http://www.inciweb.org or http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott
· For smoke information and air quality forecasts, please visit: http://www.azfireinfo.com/links.asp#Smoke-
On June 8, 2012, Yavapai County Sheriff Scott Mascher met with a roomful of Gladiator Fire volunteers at the Board of Supervisors meeting facility in Prescott. The Sheriff wanted to personally thank those in attendance for their critical assistance to YCSO during the Gladiator Fire. Yavapai County Supervisor Board Chairman Tom Thurman and City of Prescott Mayor Marlin Kuykendall also spoke to the group and expressed appreciation for the work.
Volunteers attending represented various groups who were involved in supporting the duties and responsibilities of YCSO during the fire. Groups included the Yavapai County Jeep Posse, Volunteer’s In Protection, Mobile Command Post Unit, Verde Search and Rescue, Chino Valley Mounted Sheriff’s Posse, and the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Response Team (YCSRT).
Specialized units within YCSRT were acknowledged and include the Southern Unit, Quad Unit, Backcountry Unit, Search Dog Unit, and 4×4 Unit. Lt. Jeff Newnum, YCSO Incident Commander, noted that 128 volunteers logged time throughout the incident amassing well over 6,000 hours which translated into labor cost savings in excess of $163,000.
Each of the groups represented received a commendation letter from the Sheriff which included the following statement:
“On May 13, 2012, a human caused fire, which originated from a structure fire on private property, erupted in Crown King, Arizona, a small rural but historical community. Labeled the “Gladiator Fire” by the Forest Service, the incident resulted in the destruction of six structures,” Sheriff Mascher said to Volunteers at the appreciation gathering, “and over 16,000 charred acres after moving into the Prescott National Forest. The terrain was steep, rugged, and brushy with very difficult access. Sheriff’s Office personnel and volunteer assistance lasted through May 31, 2012. The Sheriff’s Office contacted the various volunteer organizations due to their expertise in this type of environment and the expectation for evacuations. The members immediately responded and assisted with various field actions as needed in a thorough and professional manner. This type of representation of the Sheriff’s Office was recognized and strongly acknowledged throughout the entire incident. It is with great pleasure that the Sheriff’s Office offers these volunteer organizations this Certificate of Appreciation for not only the most recent incident they have assisted the Sheriff’s Office, but also for the group’s continued support throughout the years. The professionalism and efforts by these groups are deserving of the respect and acknowledgement of the Yavapai
County Sheriff s Office.”
June Regular SFD Board Meeting has been rescheduled for June 13, 2012 at 4:30 PM. Agendas available through http://www.sedonafire.org on June 12, 2012. Public is welcome and encouraged to attend. Follow http://www.SedonaEye.com Calendar of Events daily.
June 13, 2012 – Size: Approximately 16,240 acres
Containment: 100%
Cause: Human caused; originated from a structure fire on private property
Cost: $14 million
Terrain: Steep, rugged, brushy with very difficult access
Resources: 2 Engines
Total no. of personnel: 12 personnel Injuries to date: 8 Structures destroyed: 6
Final Update
Fire officials are calling the Gladiator Fire 100% contained. Crews have reported minimal heat in the interior of the fire, but will continue to patrol and monitor the burned area over the next few weeks.
The community of Crown King and its businesses are open to the public, but visitors are reminded to drive defensively; be aware of your surroundings and obey all fire restrictions and closures in the area.
Forest Closure Area Reduced
The following area is closed to the public as described below including the perimeter of the Gladiator Fire and all access points leading in the fire area:
Senator Highway (County Road 56): Beginning at the intersection of Senator Highway and Forest Road (FR) 89, legal description of Township 11 North, Range 1 West, Section 4, heading south along Senator Highway to the intersection of Senator Highway and FR 362 (Hooper Saddle).
Gladiator Fire Perimeter: All known access points, roads and trails leading into the affected fire area will be closed. Affects Forest Trails: 131, 202, 215, 216, 225, and 275. Affects Forest Roads: 89, 92, 9240A and 9268M.
The following persons are exempt from the closure:
1. Residents or persons with a Forest Service permit specifically authorizing the otherwise prohibited act or omission.
2. Any Federal, State or local officer or member of any organized rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty.
3. Persons engaged in a business, trade or occupation in the area, who are authorized by the U.S. Forest Service, the State of Arizona , or the County of Yavapai and its employees, agents, contractors and subcontractors.
The public is reminded that fireworks and operating or using any internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained, and in effective working are always prohibited on all national forest lands.
A Yavapai County fire ban is in effect across all fire ban zones. For AZ Fire Info & Restrictions Information call 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov. Follow the http://www.SedonaEye.com for updates as received.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
· Prescott National Forest Fire Information Hotline: 928-777-5799 (recorded message)
· Gladiator Fire Incident Website: http://www.inciweb.org or http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/prescott
· For smoke information and air quality forecasts, please visit: http://www.azfireinfo.com/links.asp#Smoke-