New Fireline and Firefighters on The Millie Fire
Incident: Millie Fire Wildfire
Released: 9/19/2012
Bozeman, MT... The Millie Fire, burning on the Gallatin National Forest twenty miles south of Bozeman, is 75 percent contained and 10,425 acres in size. There are approximately 110 personnel on the fire with a majority stationed at two remote camps in the South Cottonwood drainage.
Smokejumpers made progress on the 5-acre spot on the East side of the South Cottonwood drainage yesterday; however mop-up will continue today. Crews will continue to focus suppression activities on installing fireline along the knife ridge to the north and down to creek bottom on the northeast section of the fire. Firelines will be reinforced using pumps and hose to suppress the fire as the progresses towards the drainage bottom. Two new Type 2 handcrews arrive today to support existing crews working on the fire.
Temperature and humidity is expected to be similar to Monday, with a slight warming trend throughout the week. Humidity is expected to recover in the evening limiting fire growth overnight. Winds will increase in the afternoon and continue to be from the northwest bringing smoke into the area from surrounding fires.
As fire season progresses, please be careful in your preparation of firewood this fall season.
Some things to consider when cutting firewood for personal use is:
· A U.S. Forest Service permit is required for harvesting firewood.
· All slash and debris must be piled in an open area and compactly, as wide as they are tall, 6 ft X 6 ft piles.
· Chainsaw operators must carry a serviceable fire extinguisher and shovel at all times.
· Chainsaws must be equipped with an approved spark arrestor screen.
· Motorized vehicles are not allowed off existing roads.
· Cutting firewood in cooler, morning temperatures is recommended.
· To avoid unwanted fires, inspect you work area before you leave.
