Chips Fire Morning Update 08/19/12
Incident: Chips Wildfire
Released: 8/19/2012
Chips Fire Update
August 19, 2012 8:00 A.M.
Location: Plumas and Lassen National Forests
Date started: July 29, 2012 Cause: Unknown, under investigation
Size: 44,793 acres Containment : 38%
Management: California Interagency Incident Management Team 4
Fire Status: Yesterday, the fire remained active until late evening. Fire spotted across the North Fork of the Feather River at the confluence with Ohio Creek at approximately 2130. Overnight, crews continued to attempt direct line construction around the fire's edge in this area, however due to difficult terrain, crews pulled back from the head of the fire. Fire managers will continue to look at additional options and work on constructing line to protect the community of Seneca. The northern perimeter of the fire remains secure, and crews are continuing to construct and secure lines along the western perimeter.
Today's Actions: Fire managers will assess the current fire situation, and develop options for containment of the eastern fire perimeter, including possible burnout operations southwest of Canyon Dam. Further to the south, crews plan to conduct burnout operations today along the Sunnyside Mine Road to secure fuels in between the road and the fire. The fireline along the Caribou road continues to remain secure.
A Wildland Fire Use Module will be placed on the southwest side of the fire today. Crews will continue patrolling the north-west side of the fire.
PG&E representatives continue to work closely with the fire management team, and are prepared to de-energize transmission lines as needed for firefighting efforts.
Public Safety: Motorists are encouraged to use caution on roads within the vicinity of the fire, particularly on Highway 70 and Highway 89 due to increased fire traffic. Travelers should check highway conditions regularly at 800-427-ROAD or http://www.dot.ca.gov/.
Smoke may continue to pose health concerns for the public. Residents are encouraged to visit the "Protect Yourself from Smoke" website for smoke protection information at http://www.cdc.gov/Features/Wildfires/. Local air quality conditions and forecasts are available at the webpage under related links.
Ready, Set, Go website provides tips to prepare for wildfire and what to do in the event of an evacuation. Advance preparations on your part will enable firefighters and Sheriff's Deputies to assure your safety and enable them to conduct a safe and efficient evacuation. Visit Ready, Set, Go program and website at http://www.inciweb.org/incident/article/3052/15480/.
Evacuations: For Plumas County evacuation information see links
Additional Fire Information: http://www.inciweb.org/incident/3052/ or call (530) 283-3593 and (530) 283-3288 between the hours of 700 a.m. and 1000 p.m.
