EAGLE POINT, Ore. – Firefighters on the Salt Creek Fire continued to make progress on building and bolstering lines today, which are created to stop the fire’s growth. The majority of the fire has direct line, which is line constructed right at the fire’s edge, rather than a distance away.
Strategic firing operations were used today on a few small portions of the fire that had areas of indirect line due to steep, rocky terrain. With this work complete, those areas are now more secure, and as a result, containment has increased to 16%, a jump from this morning’s report of 7%. On the northern portion of the fire, mop-up operations reached 50-feet into the fire’s perimeter. Hose has been established on the southern border, which will greatly aid firefighters in mop up moving forward.
Temperatures are climbing and heat continues to be one of the most dangerous hazards that resources are facing on this incident. Several firefighters have experienced heat-related illnesses; two were taken to the hospital yesterday to be given fluids and rehydrated, and one firefighter has not returned to the line today. Safety personnel on the fire are dedicated to keeping firefighters safe, and at the beginning of each shift at 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., water and electrolyte beverages are made available for firefighters to take on the line with them. Supervisors are also tasked with watching their resources for any signs of distress. Potential heat illnesses have been highlighted during briefing, reminding firefighters to drink plenty of fluids and monitor for signs.
Medical personnel are placed strategically on the incident to be available to treat and transport firefighters if necessary.
The Salt Creek Fire is located 10 miles east of Eagle Point and was first reported Sunday, July 7, just after 4 p.m. The cause is under investigation.
