Parachute, CO – Firefighting crews have reported that the Spring Creek fire, a wildfire located near Parachute, remained relatively stable overnight Saturday, growing by just 15 acres to reach a total of 2,925 acres, or 4.6 square miles.
The fire, which is currently burning on Bureau of Land Management land southwest of Parachute, was 25% contained as of Sunday. Over 520 firefighting personnel are diligently working to combat the blaze and are planning to strengthen existing fire containment lines and manage hot spots along the fire’s edge.
Firefighters may also carry out controlled burns to bolster the fire lines and prevent further spread. While containment efforts are underway, fire officials have warned that the potentially hot and windy conditions expected on July 4th could reinvigorate the fire.
As of Sunday, Spring Creek Road and High Mesa Road were only accessible to local traffic. Importantly, no evacuations are currently in place.
With a Red Flag warning in effect for July 4th, fire crews are focusing on proactive containment measures to combat the potentially dangerous conditions. Plans are in motion to attack the fire from its western side while winds are projected to remain calm at 5-10 miles per hour.
However, conditions are expected to change by Tuesday, with wind speeds increasing and temperatures on the rise, potentially reigniting the Spring Creek Fire.
The fire, which began as a 200-acre blaze just a week ago, has yet to have its cause determined. No evacuations have been ordered thus far.
Residents are urged to register with Garfield County’s emergency notification system at the Garfield County Emergency Communications Authority (garco911.com) to receive the latest updates. The Sheriff’s office will manage all evacuation orders, and residents can call the recorded message line at 970-981-3401 for the most current evacuation information.
Wildfire Prevention and Safety Tips
As the Spring Creek Fire continues, it’s important to take preventative measures to protect against forest fires and to know what to do if one occurs nearby. Here are some safety tips:
Prevent: Do not leave campfires unattended. Be sure to extinguish any fire completely before leaving your campsite. Dispose of cigarettes responsibly and avoid outdoor burning on dry, windy days.
Plan: Have an evacuation plan ready. This should include a pre-packed emergency kit, identifying escape routes, and designating a meeting place.
Stay Informed: Tune in to local news channels for real-time updates, follow instructions from local authorities, and sign up for emergency alerts.
React: If a fire occurs, evacuate immediately if directed to do so. Protect your respiratory system from smoke by staying low to the ground and cover your nose and mouth with a mask or damp cloth.
By adhering to these guidelines, we can collectively ensure our safety and help prevent the spread of wildfires.
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