Skyline Ridge Complex Fire, Aug. 17

CANYONVILLE, Ore.— Fire crews Monday were methodically cooling hot spots on the Poole Creek Fire using a grid system to make sure none are missed. This mop up will continue over the next few days as the ODF fire team begins planning to transition management of the Complex to a smaller organization toward the end of the week. Containment on fires in the Complex is 49% overall, with all 19 fires lined and most smaller ones in patrol status.  Operations Section Chief Mike Carlson said, “Catching all these fires is very impressive. And I continue to be impressed by the thoroughness of crews doing the mop up.” As mop up continues on Poole Creek, planning for suppression repair is underway. This involves ensuring that water bars and other drainage diversions are installed on access roads, control lines and other cleared areas. A water bar is a diagonal channel across a road or fire line that diverts surface water into surrounding vegetation to prevent erosion. There, sediments settle out, keeping streams clear and protecting fish and other aquatic life. Firefighters have been following COVID-19 precautions in fire camp and out in the community, wearing masks, washing hands and maintaining social distance outside their immediate work group. Today, the medical unit is offering free COVID-19 vaccinations in fire camp to any firefighters as they demobilize. Vaccination is recommended but voluntary.