Officials: Local departments were never turned away from fighting fires - East Idaho News
Idaho Falls

Officials: Local departments were never turned away from fighting fires

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The following joint statement was issued Tuesday afternoon from the Idaho Falls Fire Department and Bureau of Land Management, Idaho Falls District:

There are pockets throughout the Henry’s Creek and BlackHawk areas that are not covered by the BLM, Idaho Falls Fire Department or the Bonneville County Fire District.

Idaho Falls Fire Department responded to a small 4-acre fire on Saturday evening. On Sunday, smoke was reported near the same area. Due to strong winds, dry fuel and low humidity, the fire spread rapidly and the BLM, IFFD, Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office and surrounding departments were called in at that time to assist.

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At no point during the Sunday operations did the Incident Commanders turn away any local fire departments who came to help. Fire personnel have been very appreciative of private individuals who have coordinated their efforts to safely fight the fire on private lands.

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Tankers, planes, and additional equipment steadily arrived throughout the day on Sunday and Monday and positioned themselves tactically to fight the rapidly growing fire. The fire is now being managed as a Unified Command between the Bureau of Land Management, Bonneville County Sherriff’s Office and Idaho Falls Fire Department. Additional crews arrived this morning, and a type 2 crew will arrive tonight to assist.

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