Fire in Bear Gulch

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Bear Gulch Fire



The day was a glorious one until I walked to the camper and discovered smoke, then fire. There was a wild fire just starting on the gulch about 2 miles up the road. I had to make myself take a deep breath not to panic, went in the house and got Don. He is a Red Cross Volunteer in charge of 2 counties and has spent extensive time preparing for emergencies. This was one. The area is VERY dry and they have been very concerned about fires starting and burning out of control. It's begun, did it have to happen so close to the house.

I prepared to evacuate, Don was not concerned but I had the keys in my pocket ready to go. We watched the fire and the excellent response from the powers that be, the county sheriff, the forest service, and local fire companies. Within 30 minutes there were 2 helicopters with water buckets dropping water on the fire directed by 2 spotter planes. Then the big guys showed up. There were 2 large planes that drop fire retardant exactly where the spotter planes show them where to drop it. The spotter planes fly in front of the larger ones and drop a small amount of fluid in the precise place they want the retardant. Then the retardant lets loose and sprays red all over. Pictures

It was incredibly orchestrated. There is one spotter plane that just oversees the air traffic in the area and you could see the helicopters move out of the way of the bigger planes or vice versa. It was a fascinating afternoon but I could have done without the experience.

It really scared me to death but Don was sure everything would be fine so I trusted his experience and relaxed a little.

The fire was almost out in our area by evening but the fire service ordered a type 2 team to maintain the line. Most of this land is National Forest so they are the ones that called out the heavy guns.

There were 3 homes evacuated, the only ones in the fire's path. The residents have since returned.

I will sleep fitfully tonight, getting up often to see how things are doing. Don assures me that if anything changes he will be notified immediately.

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Comments

[Beth]

Wow, that's crazy! Stay safe!

[Dedie]

SCARY!
I'm sure that fire made you nervous, but it is pretty cool how they manage all of it. Glad you are there and safe and sound. How are the dogs doing?

[John Ammon]

been watching your trip
Hi Kathy, I have been checking this to see if your doing ok and it appears your doing fine ! Nice pictures stay safe .