Ward Fire Morning Update, September 12, 2012, 8 AM
Incident: Ward Wildfire
Released: 9/12/2012
Ward Fire
Information Update
Shasta-Trinity National Forest
September 12, 2012 8:00 AM
InciWeb: http://www.inciweb.org/
Current Situation:
The Ward Fire started on September 11, 2012 at 12:50AM. It is approximately 474 acres and 40% contained. It is located outside of Sims, California, on the eastern side of Interstate 5 near the Sims Campground (Exit 718). It is being managed by Type 3 Incident Command team led by Incident Commander Brian Ramsey.
The Ward Fire is burning primarily on private lands as well as National Forest lands. Steep terrain and heavy fuels as well as low humidity and dry conditions contributed to active daytime fire behavior and spotting. Residents along Hazel Creek Road have voluntarily evacuated their homes. The communities of Sims, Conant and Sweetbriar could potentially be impacted by the fire. An aggressive initial attack with engines, dozers, hand crews, helicopters and air tankers as well as crews and equipment working throughout the night have made good progress towards achieving containment on the east and west flanks of the fire.
This fire is very visible from Interstate 5 and is providing distractions for motorists. Additionally, smoke could impact driving conditions in the area. All motorists should be cautious while driving through this area, in particular between Lakehead and Castella.
Location: 1 mile northeast of Sims, California
Start Date & Report Time: September 11, 2012 at 12:50 AM
Cause: Under Investigation
Acres: 474
Percent Containment: 40%
Estimated Containment: September 15, 2012
Resources: Hand Crews:19 Helicopters: 6
Engines: 46 Bulldozers: 9
Water Tenders: 10
Injuries: 1
Fireline-to-Build: 2 miles
Structures Threatened: 35
Estimated Cost-to-Date: $300,000
Total personnel assigned to the incident: approximately 579
Additional Information: Additional fire information can be obtained by calling (530) 918-8379. ###
