February Fire Press Update

The fire is at 2,475 acres, but, is at 30% containment. The total of personnel involved is now at 401. Equipment used is totaled at 19 engines, 8 dozers, 10 water tenders, 6 helicopters, & 2 air tankers. The fire is fueled by chaparral, pine and juniper and 12 miles north of Payson, in rough, broken, steep terrain. The firefighters reinforced the line around the fire & conducted several burn-out operations. West winds helped with black lining operations & pushed the fire back onto itself. Based on current weather forecasts, firefighters plan to conduct holding operations Sunday. If winds are more moderate than predicted, black lining and burn-outs may continue. Planning continues for aerial ignition of the interior of the fire on Sunday or Monday. The intent is to quickly burn the underbrush with a low-intensity fire. This action will generate significant amounts of smoke, but it will all be within the lines. The Control Road (FR 64) remains closed between the Geronimo Estates Roads (FR 458) and the Washington Park Road (FR 32). Local residents will have access to their properties. To protect those traveling and working along the Control Road, the speed limit is 20 mph.