As of Monday evening, the 842 Fire in the HD Mountains near Chimney Rock National Monument expanded to a total of 743 acres, and fire crews expect to burn-out an additional 300 acres in days ahead.
Drip torches will be used during burn-out operations to produce a low-intensity fire and prevent the wildfire from making advances. The method will also reduce the amount of heavy fuel loads deposited on the landscape.
“Smoke from the fire will be more visible as we expect significant acreage growth as a result of today’s operations,” Lance Martin, Type III Incident Commander, said in a press release.
Moderate smoke is expected to be visible from Colorado Highway 151 and U.S. Highway 160 near the HD Mountains and Chimney Rock. People in nearby valleys may experience reduced visibility and should take caution when the smoke settles during evenings and overnight. It tends to be worst at dawn.
According to San Juan Basin Public Health, smoke reaches unhealthy levels when visibility is less than five miles. When smoke settles, use these tips to stay safe:
If smoke becomes noticeably thicker, remain indoors or seek out locations where air is filtered.Residents who are sensitive to smoke, those with heart or lung diseases, children and elderly adults should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion.Close windows and doors, and stay inside. Be careful to avoid overheating.If appliances are filtered, run air conditioning units or evaporative coolers, or use fans. Use high-efficiency particulate air, known as HEPA, air filters if available.Refrain from smoking, using vacuum cleaners, burning candles, and avoid secondhand smoke and other sources of air pollution.Do not use paper dust masks; they do not filter the particles and gases in smoke.To prepare for nighttime smoke, air out residences in the afternoon when smoke tends to be more diluted.Seek assistance from a health care provider if symptoms persist or become more severe.No travel or camping restrictions are in place, though visitors should be aware that fire activity could increase at any time.
For more information about getting prepared, visit www.ready.gov/wildfires.
For updates and more information about the 842 Fire, contact Chris Tipton, Columbine District fire management officer, at 884-1427, the Columbine District Office at 884-2512, or visit inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5481.
