Crews Battle Winds; Gila Fire Still At 32% Containment

Crews on the eastern flank worked near the West Fork of the Gila River Saturday to keep the fire in check utilizing helicopters for aerial ignitions and water drops. In the Wilderness on the southern flank of the fire there was increased fire activity. Crews were out scouting to prepare containment lines in this area. Lines held strong on the western flank despite the increased wind

Hotshot crews will remain in the Wilderness area through Monday on the eastern flank to monitor and keep containment lines in check. Along the southern fire edge engine crews and hand crews are still working to secure the area and strengthen containment lines. Patrolling and mop up will continue on the western flank through out the day.

With increased fire behavior on the south and southwestern flank of the fire, more fire resources will be on the roads. For your safety and safety of the fire crews please avoid traveling on Sacaton Road and Moon Ranch Road.

For additional information regarding the post fire-flood assessment go to the Whitewater-
Baldy Complex BAER page at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/2900/.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: If you are planning to visit the Forest, Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are in effect. Additional closures are still are in effect in several areas; please go to the Gila National Forest website at www.fs.usda.gov/gila for current information or contact the Forest directly at 575-388-8201.

Fire Facts: