9/03/2015 Carpenter Road Fire Update

Carpenter Road Fire – Fruitland, Washington

Location:  35 miles NW of Spokane, WA;

Incident Commander:  Doug Johnson

Information Center: 509-722-6010

Inciweb: http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/4549/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/CarpenterRoadFire

Washington Smoke Information: http://wasmoke.blogspot.com/

Current Situation:

The Carpenter Road Fire is estimated at 64,903 acres and 45% containment.

Despite a low relative humidity at 25%, fire growth is expected to be low.  Winds from the south and with gusts up to 14 mph will result in a creeping fire.  If embers hit the ground there will be a 50% chance of ignition with spotting at up to ¼ mile.

The southern portion of the fire below Springdale – Hunters Road is in patrol status with crews mopping up by checking hot spots by hand, digging out smoldering vegetation and spraying water where necessary. Hand held infra-red heat detection devices are being utilized along these flanks to locate heat sources for mop-up.  There is some active fire near Springdale – Hunters Road and communities are asked to remain cautious and vigilant until all hazards are mitigated.

Containment lines north of Springdale – Hunters Road are nearly complete.  Direct primary lines are being put in to prevent further fire spread.

Aircraft were able to assist in suppression operations yesterday and will continue backing up firefighters on the ground today.

Closures and Evacuation Information:

For evacuation and road closure information:

• Stevens County EOC:  509 684-7598 or www.co.stevens.wa.us 
• Spokane Tribal Police:  509 258-4400

Resources Assigned:

• 856 personnel (total)
• 23 crews
• 4 helicopters
• 64 engines (wildland and structural)
• Heavy equipment-27 Dozers; 22 Water Tenders; 3 Masticators

With bow hunting season opening, hunters and recreationalists using private and public lands should use caution while enjoying the outdoors.  The recent precipitation has done little to alleviate the extreme drought conditions occurring in northeastern Washington.  The winds will quickly dry light fuels to where any type of spark or flame may ignite a wildfire.  Please follow local fire restrictions and remain mindful of fire prevention.  The Industrial Fire Protection Level remains at a Level IV.