Good News At Public Fire Meeting

Those attending a community meeting in Jackson put on last night by fire managers were presented some very positive news about the fire – most notably,  Jackson Hole Fire Chief Willie Watsabaugh announced that the evacuation advisory for East Jackson has been lifted.  Watsabaugh told the group however, that people still need to remain vigilant in the event that an unforeseen change occurs in the fire’s behavior.  Meanwhile, the next area of concern will be securing the lines to protect the residences at Game Creek.  Incident Commander Chris Ourada explained that the Elk Refuge Road has been closed to all but local traffic between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm due to a temporary heli-base being set up there and a concern for the safety of the public there.  Ourada says the fire now involves 3,324 acres but is 36% contained.  Operations Section Chief Alan Mitchell told the group, that is expected to change in just three or four days when crews hope to have the fire fully contained.  Currently officials say there are 587 people working the fire including 13 type-one 20-person hand crews and several other crews working the lines; and aided by ten helicopters, 43 fire engines, 3 bulldozers, several air tankers.