Hazardous conditions exist in area fires
by Bridger-Teton National Forest
September 4, 2007
(Pinedale) - The Bridger-Teton National Forest is cautioning visitors to stay aware of their surroundings as they utilize the Forest near the Salt Lick and Horse Creek fires. Although closures have been lifted on the Horse Creek and Salt Lick Fires, they are still uncontrolled and can present serious hazards to public entering the burn area.
The Salt Lick Fire, which began July 11, 31-miles northwest of the town of Pinedale, Wyoming in the Upper Green River Basin, burned 2,582 acres and is now 80% contained. The Horse Creek Fire started June 21, about 8-miles west of the town of Merna off the Horse Creek Road. This fire burned 8,590 acres and was declared contained on July 2.
Both fires are in monitor and patrol status which means fire personnel will continue to check on them as they burn and smolder. According to Fire Managers, these fires will continue putting up occasional smoke until we have a “season ending event” meaning a significant amount of snowfall.
Hunters and visitors to those areas of the forest are encouraged to stay out of the burns, and to be aware of the hazards that exist if they choose to enter. Dangers in the burn areas include hot spots under the ash due to the fire continuing to smolder; roots of trees that have burned out leaving deep holes that are often hidden by ash, soot or debris; standing burnt trees, or snags, which create a serious hazard as they are weak and can
fall at any time; and rolling rocks on steep slopes also pose a danger.
Hunters and campers are also reminded to be cautious with warming and cooking fires and to be sure to completely extinguish all fires.
For more information on these and other area fires, go to www.inciweb.org .or call 307-739-5080. To report a fire call 911.
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