DENVER - The Pine Gulch and Grizzly Creek Fires on Colorado’s Western Slope are a reminder that we are still in Colorado’s core fire season. Colorado’s wildland-urban interface communities are particularly threatened by wildfires and current conditions include a lack of moisture, distressed vegetation, extreme fire weather (Red Flag warnings), and overgrown and beetle-killed forests. These conditions need only an ignition source in order for a disaster to occur.
“During this pandemic, firefighters and first responders are playing a critical role in keeping our state safe, and we want to remind everyone to please do your part in preventing human-caused wildfires,” said Governor Polis. “While this pandemic has been unprecedented, the Division of Fire Prevention and Control, along with our public safety partners, have been proactively working to ensure our state is prepared for this year’s wildfire season - including for challenges presented by COVID-19. We are all in this together, and we will get through this together.”
The Pine Gulch Fire started July 31st, 18 miles north of Grand Junction. The Grizzly Creek Fire started August 10th, 5 miles east of Glenwood Springs. Aircraft and ground resources continue to use a full suppression strategy where safely possible to do so and minimize impacts on private land. The official cause of both fires are still under investigation. The Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control (DFPC) is currently providing support to the Pine Gulch Fire in the form of funding, aviation, ground resources, and technical assistance.
Remember to check for local camping and fire restrictions in your area and never leave a campfire unattended. If it is safe to build a campfire, make sure that when you are finished, any fire is completely extinguished. When doing yard work, keep fire safety in mind when safely burning debris. Always remember to have a water source nearby for your fire and be sure your fire is at least 15 feet from any structures or hanging branches. This year, try outdoor activities that easily allow for safe social distancing like hiking, biking, and bird watching.
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