With the Memorial Day holiday in full swing, there are a large number of visitors enjoying the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. The public is urged to make sure campfires are always attended to avoid devastating wildfires. When putting campfires out, drown it with plenty of water, use a shovel to stir the ashes and water, and make sure it’s cool to the touch to ensure it is completely extinguished. Fire prevention is everyone’s responsibility.
Clifton Ranger District
The lightning caused Chitty fire, discovered on May 22, 2024, is sixteen-acres and is located south of Forest Road (FR) 54 and west of the Blue Vista overlook on Highway 191. The sixteen-acre Chitty fire ignited in a pocket of unburned fuels within the East Eagle prescribed fire project area that was implemented between mid-April and early May, 2024. The Upper Bear fire, located near the Chitty fire, was also discovered on May 24, and is burning in steep, rugged, inaccessible terrain in a side drainage of Chitty Canyon. It will be monitored daily by firefighting personnel to ensure that it stays within the boundaries of the East Eagle prescribed fire project area. There are no threats to communities, infrastructure, or values at risk currently.
Black Mesa Ranger District
The Pierce fire started in the late afternoon on May 25, 2024 and is located north of FR 124 west of FR 51. Firefighters were able to successfully suppress and contain the fire to one-quarter of an acre in size. There are no threats to communities, infrastructure, or values at risk.
Springerville Ranger District
The Red Cabin fire started in the early evening on May 25, 2024 and is located on private land near the Red Cabin Ranch. Firefighting resources include the Coyote Creek Initial Attack crew, an Engine crew, and a water tender from the Vernon Fire Department. Firefighters were able to stop the fires forward movement and hold it to 1.5 acres. Forest resources are working with the state to extinguish the fire and will remain on scene today and tomorrow. There are no threats to communities, infrastructure, or values at risk currently.
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