ODF release – Klamath Falls, ORE. – Bootleg Fire, 298,662 acres & 22-percent contained. Red Flag weather conditions played a significant role in fire behavior Saturday. The fire pushed over Sam’s Cabin Road and the 27 Road to the north. The fire continues to be held from Preacher Flats to Mitchell Monument, and is pushing further east, approaching the 28 road. Fire crews were able to insert dozer line and burnout to minimize the fire growth overnight. One of today’s priorities will be to attempt hold these areas to prevent further spread of the fire. Other priorities include constructing direct fireline and building contingency lines north of the fire in the Sycan Marsh and along the 28 Road to the south. These contingency lines may be used as the fire continues to march towards the communities of Paisley, Summer Lake, and Silver Lake. Structure protection groups today will be focused on homes along the 34 and 28 roads. Crews plan to work around Deadhorse Lake to begin preparation of advance of the fire. As work is completed, structural firefighters will continue their work further north on the southeastern corner of the fire. Additional evacuation levels have been implemented in Lake County. The southwestern flank of the fire continues to hold and firefighters remain in patrol status to scout for areas of remaining heat. As evacuations relax along the south and southwest flanks and residents begin to return to their homes, it is imperative landowners use caution when returning. Firefighters have cleared many of the hazards, however there may be some lingering hot spots and fire weakened trees. Residents may also see smoke as fuels continue to burn within the fire perimeter. Please use an abundance of caution around these areas.
