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IONE – Firefighters are making progress on the Upper Ruby Creek Fire in central Pend Oreille County approximately 16 miles northwest of Cusick. The fire started Tuesday, Aug. 20. As of Tuesday, Aug. 27, the fire was 31% contained.
It is burning in fuels remaining on the ground following logging activities and in heavily forested areas, according to a U.S. Forest Service news release. Initial firefighting efforts included engines, heavy equipment, hand crews and aerial resources. Ten to 20 loads of fire retardant and extensive water drops aided on-the-ground firefighting resources in limiting southern and western movement of the fire and keeping fire from the private property on the south end of the fire. There have been no evacuations ordered or buildings destroyed.
Monday, Aug. 26, eight crews, seven engines, seven water tenders, and 10 pieces of heavy equipment continued mopping up along the 282-acre fire perimeter to strength control lines. This included digging by hand, using hoses to apply water to the ground, and using heavy equipment. Crews mopped up at least 10 feet from the fire perimeter with some areas up to 66 feet. A contingency line on the northeast flank of the fire was completed. At least eight medical personnel were staged throughout the fire to support fire personnel.
Tuesday. Aug. 27, crews will continue to mop up along the fire perimeter.
Portable handheld infrared technology will be used to identify heat near the perimeter so that crews can work to extinguish those areas.
Hazards to firefighters include hot ash pits, unstable footing, fire-weakened and standing dead trees (snags) and a very high population of ground nesting bees.
People should expect cold temperatures in the evenings during the week, but daytime temperatures could reach mid to upper 80s by this weekend.
