Gladiator Fire |
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| Posts from May 2012 |
Where We Stand
by Michael Mallace
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posted May 26 2012 1:52AM
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Friday May 25 @10P
It has been a long two weeks. We were first impacted by the Gladiator Fire the evening of Mothers Day, two Sunday's ago. The fire came with in feet of our transmission site and tower and we have had our broadcast interrupted a number of times due to the fire. I'm happy to report that things are getting better. Miraculously, APS has persevered and restored power to our site this afternoon and the forrest service is letting the residents of Crown King back to their town and homes. This also means that our crew's will now have greater access to our facility as well.
The fire is over 40% contained and the communications sites seem to be safe. Although, this could change on a dime if weather conditions change.
Thank you for your care and concern during these challenging weeks. We are hopeful that the worst is behind us and that we won't be experiencing any more failures.
My very best,
MM
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May 25, 2012 @ 9:00AM
by b-mah
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posted May 25 2012 2:21PM
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Gladiator Fire
May 25, 2012 @ 9:00AM
Size: Approximately 16,240 acres Containment: 35%
Cause: Human caused; originated from a structure fire on private property
Cost: $12.27 million
Terrain: Steep, rugged, brushy with very difficult access
Resources: 12 Type-1 Crews; 12 Type-2 Crews; 33 Engines; 22 Water Tenders; 5 Dozers; 4 Type 1 Helicopters; 2 Type 2 Helicopters; 2 Type 3 Helicopters
Total no. of personnel: 990 personnel Injuries to date: 8 Structures destroyed: 6
Evacuations lifted for the Communities of Crown King, Pine Flats and Turkey
The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office has announced a three phase re-entry procedure going into effect today for the communities of Crown King, Pine Flats, and Turkey Creek. Electricity will also be restored to the area this afternoon.
Phase I
FRIDAY 5/25/2012 0800 hours – Crown King will be opened to FULL TIME
RESIDENTS and BUSINESS OWNERS Only.
FRIDAY 5/25/2012 1800 hours – Pine Flat and Turkey Creek will be opened to FULL
TIME RESIDENTS and BUSINESS OWNERS Only.
Phase II (24hours later)
SATURDAY 5/26/2012 0800 hours – Crown King, Pine Flats, and Turkey Creek will
be opened to Part Time Residents and Other Property Owners.
Phase III (48hours after Phase II)
Monday 5/28/12 0800 hours – Crown King, Pine Flats, and Turkey Creek will be
opened to the Public and Media.
In order to make entry into the fire zone and pass through the road block, residents will
be required to obtain a “RE-ENTRY PASS” from the Sheriff’s Office. These passes will
only be issued at the Mayer Sheriff’s Substation. Residents must bring proof of
residency to the Mayer Sheriff’s Office Substation located at 13272 Central Avenue
Mayer, AZ in order to receive the pass.
For more information about re-entry, please call the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office at 928-713-2709.
Last night, despite wind gusts of up to 60 mph, all containment lines held. Infrared mapping technology still detected heat in the southwest corner of the fire; however 20% less heat was detected than the night before.
Today’s actions include holding, patrolling and mopping up containment lines. Areas disturbed by suppression actions will continue to be rehabilitated today. Mop up work planned for today includes putting out smoldering material 200 feet from containment lines, cutting down snags, and digging trenches to prevent rolling debris. Firefighters will also utilize chippers to remove slash from around the community of Crown King.
Red flag conditions – hot, dry weather and with gusty winds are expected again. Twenty-five to 40 mph winds from the south with gusts up to 50 mph are expected today. Strong winds blowing embers beyond containment lines and starting spot fires remains a concern. With current conditions, if an ember or spark lights an unburned area, it is expected to spread rapidly.
As fire activity decreases, additional fire personnel will continue to be released. The Type 1 Incident Management Team plans to turn the fire back to the Prescott National Forest to manage with a smaller Type 3 organization on Sunday.
An expanded Closure Order is in effect, as of May 20, 2012 at 6 p.m., for all Prescott National Forest, Bradshaw Ranger District land south of the following: Beginning at the southwest corner, Township 12 North, Range 3 West, Section 33; south of River Pasture, along Forest Road 72 west to FS Road 667, following Middlewater Creek to the south of Maverick Mountain, east to Forest Road 9403C and onto Forest Road 52B connecting to the Senator Highway (County Road 56). Senator Highway east continuing to FS Road 261 east of Mount Union Lookout towards County Road 58 through Breezy Pines, extending to Poland Junction.
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All roads leading into the community of Crown King are closed.
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Cleator – Crown King Road (County Road 59) is closed at Cleator.
· Senator Highway to Crown King (County Road 56) is closed at the junction with Poland Rd. (County Road 58). .
· Mayer-Bolada Road (County Road 177) is closed at the Forest Boundary.
· Forest Road 711 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Cow Creek
· Forest Road 362 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Wagner.
· Forest Road 192 is closed
A Yavapai County fire ban is in effect across all fire ban zones. Prescott National Forest Campfire and Smoking Restrictions are also in effect. For AZ Fire Info & Restrictions Information call 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
For smoke information and air quality forecasts, please visit: http://www.azfireinfo.com/links.asp#Smoke
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Gladiator Fire Update Wednesday May 23 @7:30pm
by b-mah
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posted May 24 2012 12:27AM
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Gladiator Fire Update Wednesday May 23 @7:30pm
There is not a whole lot of news to report on the fire today. I want to thank all of the fire/forrest service crews for doing everything they have done to protect the communication sites. Tomorrow (Thursday) we are hopeful that our crews will be up on the site to top off the fuel in our propane tanks and do maintenance on our generator. Be prepared that we could (most likely) go off the air intermitently as this maintenance occurs. It is estimated that it will be a minimum of two weeks before APS will restore power to the communication site. Therefore, maintaining our generator is critical so we can continue to provide power to our site and stay on the air.
Please remember that you can always listen to us on-line, through Facebook and on all smart phones including iPhones and Androids. Also, please follow us on Facebook, twitter and our website as developments occur.
Finally, we are comforted by your calls to the studio and comments on Facebook and twitter. Thank you all for your support and prayers.
MM
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Latest Report on the Gladiator Fire
by Matt Locks
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posted May 23 2012 2:08PM
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Gladiator Fire
May 22, 2012 @ 9:00pm
Size: Approximately 15,622 acres Containment: 26%
Cause: Human caused; originated from a structure fire on private property
Terrain: Steep, rugged, brushy with very difficult access
Resources: 13 Type-1 Crews, 16 Type-2 Crews, 43 Engines, 37 Water Tenders, 5 Dozers, 6 Type 1 Helicopters, 2 Type 2 Helicopters, 2 Type 3 Helicopters,
Total no. of personnel: 1,151 personnel Injuries to date: 7 Structures destroyed: 6
There will be an informal community gathering at 6 pm, Wednesday, May 23 at the Mayer High School, 17300 East Mule Deer Drive, Spring Valley, AZ. A fire update will be provided.
FIREFIGHTERS HOLD LINES IN FACE OF FIERCE WINDS
Forecasted red flag warnings for stronger winds and low humidity proved accurate Tuesday. In spite of the conditions, firefighters were able to hold constructed fire lines.
The north and east sides of the fire experienced little activity. Western portions near Towers Mountain were much more active with fire backing down slope towards the Senator Highway.
An evacuation order remains in effect for the community of Crown King, and the Battle Flat, Pine Flat, and Turkey Creek areas. For questions about Evacuations and Roadblocks contact the Yavapai County Sherriff’s Office at 928-713-2709. Be aware that rumors of evacuations are abundant. Only evacuation orders issued by the Sheriff’s Office are valid.
An expanded Closure Order is in effect, as of May 20, 2012 at 6 p.m., for all Prescott National Forest, Bradshaw Ranger District land south of the following: Beginning at the southwest corner, Township 12 North, Range 3 West, Section 33; south of River Pasture, along Forest Road 72 west to FS Road 667, following Middlewater Creek to the south of Maverick Mountain, east to Forest Road 9403C and onto Forest Road 52B connecting to the Senator Highway (County Road 56). Senator Highway east continuing to FS Road 261 east of Mount Union Lookout towards County Road 58 through Breezy Pines, extending to Poland Junction.
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All roads leading into the community of Crown King are closed.
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Cleator – Crown King Road (County Road 59) is closed at Cleator.
· Senator Highway to Crown King (County Road 56) is closed at the junction with Poland Rd. (County Road 58). .
· Mayer-Bolada Road (County Road 177) is closed at the Forest Boundary.
· Forest Road 711 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Cow Creek
· Forest Road 362 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Wagner.
· Forest Road 192 is closed
A Yavapai County fire ban is in effect across all fire ban zones. Prescott National Forest Campfire and Smoking Restrictions are also in effect. For AZ Fire Info & Restrictions Information call 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
For smoke information and air quality forecasts, visit http://www.azfireinfo.com/links.asp#Smoke
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Where we stand right now
by Michael Mallace
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posted May 22 2012 8:04PM
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Tuesday May 22 @ 5p
I wanted to give you an update on the Gladiator Fire. Yesterday afternoon at five o'clock we were able to restart our generator at our Wildflower site and put KAJM and KNRJ back on the air at full power. We still have our backups in place should there be another failure.
Word from the forest service today is a bit more positive. They are telling us that the Communication site is "looking good". They have seven Hot shot teams in the area of the site working the fire. We also here that fuel trucks could be going to the site later this week to refill everyone's propane tanks. This is a good sign. Obviously, the fuel is important to keep the generators operating until APS can restore power.
MM
Michael H. Mallace
General Manager
Sierra H Broadcasting
KAJM – FM / KNRJ – FM
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How Close the Fire Came
by Matt Locks
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posted May 22 2012 3:21PM
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This is a map of the fire lines and our transmission site. We thank all the Firefighters and Hot Shot Crews working so hard to keep this fire away from our Towers, Cabins and the Community of Crown King.
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Latest Report on the Gladiator Fire
by Matt Locks
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posted May 22 2012 1:06PM
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Gladiator Fire
May 22, 2012 @ 9:00 am
Size: Approximately 14,963 acres Containment: 19%
Cause: Human caused; originated from a structure fire on private property
Terrain: Steep, rugged, difficult access
Resources: 13 Type-1 Crews, 16 Type-2 Crews, 43 Engines, 37 Water Tenders, 5 Dozers, 6 Type 1 Helicopters, 2 Type 2 Helicopters, 2 Type 3 Helicopters, Air Attack
Total no. of personnel: 1,160 personnel Injuries to date: 6
There will be an informal community gathering at 6 pm, Tuesday, May 22 at the Mayer High School, 17300 East Mule Deer Drive, Spring Valley, AZ. A fire update will be provided.
FIREFIGHTERS EXERCISE PATIENCE WHILE
MAKING INCREMENTAL PROGRESS
Red flag warnings for stronger winds and very low humidity, along with high temperature and extremely dry fuels continue. Firefighters are watching the weather closely, while steadily and methodically slowing the fire’s progress.
The area of greatest concern remains the west flank of the fire. Crews continue to hold and patrol Forest Road 92, and are closely monitoring the fire’s movement downhill to the west toward Forest Road 52 (Senator Highway). Southwest winds today will help slow the fire’s backing movement, as firefighters patrol and burnout as necessary to keep the fire within bounds.
In the area around Battle Flats, direct attack on the fire’s edge will continue today. Masticators will be working north toward Palace Station today, removing brush.
Contingency plans are in place for the area south of Walker and Groom Creek, to assure safety of these communities if the fire moves northward. Line preparation continues on County Road 177.
Fire activity is minimal on the east side of the fire. Crews continue patrol and chipping along the Crown King Road
Heavy smoke will continue to be produced by the fire, but an unstable atmosphere is likely to allow smoke to ascend and dissipate, reducing any deterioration of air quality. For more smoke information and air quality forecasts, visit http://www.azfireinfo.com/links.asp#Smoke.
An evacuation order remains in effect for the community of Crown King, and the Battle Flat, Pine Flat, and Turkey Creek areas. For questions about Evacuations and Roadblocks contact the Yavapai County Sherriff’s Office at 928-713-2709. Be aware that rumors of evacuations are abundant, and ONLY evacuation orders issued by the Sheriff’s Office are valid!
An expanded Closure Order is in effect, as of May 20, 2012 at 6 p.m., for all Prescott National Forest, Bradshaw Ranger District land south of the following:
Beginning at the southwest corner, Township 12 North, Range 3 West, Section 33; south of River Pasture, along Forest Road 72 west to FS Road 667, following Middlewater Creek to the south of Maverick Mountain, east to Forest Road 9403C and onto Forest Road 52B connecting to the Senator Highway (County Road 56). Senator Highway east continuing to FS Road 261 east of Mount Union Lookout towards County Road 58 through Breezy Pines, extending to Poland Junction.
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All roads leading into the community of Crown King are closed.
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Cleator – Crown King Road (County Road 59) is closed at Cleator.
· Senator Highway to Crown King (County Road 52) is closed at the junction with Poland Rd. (County Road 58). .
· Mayer-Bolada Road (County Road 177) is closed at the Forest Boundary.
· Forest Road 711 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Cow Creek
· Forest Road 362 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Wagner.
· Forest Road 192 is closed
A Yavapai County fire ban is in effect across all fire ban zones. Prescott National Forest Campfire and Smoking Restrictions are also in effect. For AZ Fire Info & Restrictions Information call 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
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Latest Report on the Gladiator Fire
by Matt Locks
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posted May 22 2012 3:04AM
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Gladiator Fire
May 21, 2012 @ 9:00 pm
Size: Approximately 14,963 acres Containment: 19%
Cause: Human caused; originated from a structure fire on private property
Terrain: Steep, rugged, difficult access
Resources: 13 Type-1 Crews, 16 Type-2 Crews, 43 Engines, 37 Water Tenders, 5 Dozers, 6 Type 1 Helicopters, 2 Type 2 Helicopters, 2 Type 3 Helicopters, Air Attack
Total no. of personnel: 1,160 personnel Injuries to date: 6
There will be an informal community gathering at 6 pm, Tuesday, May 22 at the Mayer High School, 17300 East Mule Deer Drive, Spring Valley, AZ. A fire update will be provided.
EXTREME FIRE WEATHER CONTINUES TO TEST FIREFIGHTERS
Stronger winds and very low humidity, along with high temperature and extremely dry fuels made firefighters’ work more difficult today. However, despite a top of the scale Haines Index, crews made good progress, and aircraft were used to good effect.
The area of greatest concern is the west flank of the fire. Treatments are being concentrated here to provide a contingency if fire should cross Forest Road 52 (Senator Highway). Fire continued to creep westward toward FR 52, while crews continued to remove fuel along the road. Tomorrow firefighters will hold and improve line as the fire backs toward FR 52 on the extreme southwest corner of the fire.
The dozer line south of Battle Flat road was completed today, and crews employed direct attack on the fire’s edge. Direct attack will continue as crews work south. Contingency line construction in the Pine Flat/Turkey Creek area was essentially completed, while brush removal continues on County Road 177.
Fire activity was minimal on the east side of the fire. Crews continued chipping brush along the Crown King Road. Firefighters will continue to patrol containment lines around the community of Crown King, and along Forest Road 92 tomorrow.
Heavy smoke will continue to be produced by the fire, but unstable atmosphere is likely to allow smoke to ascend and dissipate, reducing any deterioration of air quality. For more smoke information and air quality forecasts, visit http://www.azfireinfo.com/links.asp#Smoke.
An evacuation order remains in effect for the community of Crown King, and the Battle Flat, Pine Flat, and Turkey Creek areas. For questions about Evacuations and Roadblocks contact the Yavapai County Sherriff’s Office at 928-713-2709. Be aware that rumors of evacuations are abundant, and ONLY evacuation orders issued by the Sheriff’s Office are valid!
The Red Cross Reception Center in Mayer has been closed. If it becomes necessary, the Center may be reopened.
An expanded Closure Order is in effect, as of May 20, 2012 at 6 p.m., for all Prescott National Forest, Bradshaw Ranger District land south of the following:
Beginning at the southwest corner, Township 12 North, Range 3 West, Section 33; south of River Pasture, along Forest Road 72 west to FS Road 667, following Middlewater Creek to the south of Maverick Mountain, east to Forest Road 9403C and onto Forest Road 52B connecting to the Senator Highway (County Road 56). Senator Highway east continuing to FS Road 261 east of Mount Union Lookout towards County Road 58 through Breezy Pines, extending to Poland Junction.
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All roads leading into the community of Crown King are closed.
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Cleator – Crown King Road (County Road 59) is closed at Cleator.
· Senator Highway to Crown King (County Road 52) is closed at the junction with Poland Rd. (County Road 58). .
· Mayer-Bolada Road (County Road 177) is closed at the Forest Boundary.
· Forest Road 711 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Cow Creek
· Forest Road 362 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Wagner.
· Forest Road 192 is closed
A Yavapai County fire ban is in effect across all fire ban zones. Prescott National Forest Campfire and Smoking Restrictions are also in effect. For AZ Fire Info & Restrictions Information call 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
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Where we stand right now
by Michael Mallace
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posted May 21 2012 7:51PM
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Monday May 21, 4:51 PM
I wanted to provide you with an update on the radio stations due to the Gladiator Forest Fire in Crown King.
At 2 AM Saturday night/Sunday morning both radio stations lost generator power at the site and we were forced off the air. We immediately implemented our emergency plan of relocating the KAJM 104.3 frequency to Shaw Butte in the northern part of Phoenix. KAJM went on the air yesterday at 2:40 PM from the emergency site at reduced power. We are currently working to get KNRJ 101.1 on the air from the same site. We have filed an emergency antenna notice with the FCC for KAJM and will do the same for KNRJ when we are up and running notifying them of the change of location.
In regards to the fire and our communications site. the good news is it appears to still be standing and in tact. The "Hot Shot's" did a back burn around the site to create a barrier from the approaching fire, that controlled burn seems to be successful. Although, the fire is still active and for obvious safety issues the forest service will not allow or crews in to asses and repair our equipment. We are hopeful that this can take place within the next 48 hours. APS is also working to restore power as well. This may take up to a week or more. We should be able to back on the air when either the generator or APS power is restored, whichever comes first.
Michael H. Mallace
General Manager
Sierra H Broadcasting
KAJM – FM / KNRJ – FM
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May 21, 2012 @ 9:00 am
by b-mah
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posted May 21 2012 12:20PM
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Gladiator Fire
May 21, 2012 @ 9:00 am
Size: Approximately 14,184 acres Containment: 15%
Cause: Human caused; originated from a structure fire on private property
Terrain: Steep, rugged, difficult access
Resources: 13 Type-1 Crews, 15 Type-2 Crews, 44 Engines, 33 Water Tenders, 5 Dozers, 6 Type 1 Helicopters, 2 Type 2 Helicopters, 2 Type 3 Helicopters, Air Attack
Total no. of personnel: 1,127 personnel Injuries to date: 6
There will be an informal community gathering at 6 pm, Monday, May 21 at the Mayer High School, 17300 East Mule Deer Drive, Spring Valley, AZ. A fire update will be provided.
DRIER, WINDIER WEATHER WILL CHALLENGE FIREFIGHTERS TODAY
Forecasted winds and extended periods of very low humidity, along with high temperature and extremely dry fuels indicate active to extreme fire behavior today. The Haines Index is a number used by firefighters to describe the potential for extreme fire behavior. Today’s Haines Index is 6, which is the top of the scale.
Fire activity is minimal on the east side of the fire. Crews will continue chipping brush along the Crown King Road. Firefighters are patrolling containment lines around the community of Crown King, and along Forest Road 92.
Burnout was completed last night around the communications towers. Crews will deepen and strengthen these firelines today.
Brush removal continues along Forest Road 52, in preparation for burnout along the east side of FR 52 to meet the fire’s edge. Contingency line construction will continue today in the Pine Flat/Turkey Creek area, along County Road 177, and along FR 52. This activity includes dozer line construction and brush removal.
An evacuation order remains in effect for the community of Crown King, and the Battle Flat, Pine Flat, and Turkey Creek areas. For questions about Evacuations and Roadblocks contact the Yavapai County Sherriff’s Office at 928-713-2709. Be aware that rumors of evacuations are abundant, and ONLY evacuation orders issued by the Sheriff’s Office are valid!
Yavapai County issued an air quality update yesterday, advising that smoke from this fire is moving to the northeast toward the Mayer/Dewey area. Your eyes are your best tools to determine if it’s safe to be outside. If it looks smoky, it is probably not a good time for outdoor activities. For more smoke information and air quality forecasts, visit http://www.azfireinfo.com/links.asp#Smoke. The Red Cross Reception Center is staffed if you need to leave your home to get relief from the smoke. It is located at Mayer Elementary School, Mayer, AZ. Red Cross personnel can be reached at 928-237-6751.
An expanded Closure Order is in effect, as of May 20, 2012 at 6 p.m., for all Prescott National Forest, Bradshaw Ranger District land south of the following:
Beginning at the southwest corner, Township 12 North, Range 3 West, Section 33; south of River Pasture, along Forest Road 72 west to FS Road 667, following Middlewater Creek to the south of Maverick Mountain, east to Forest Road 9403C and onto Forest Road 52B connecting to the Senator Highway (County Road 56). Senator Highway east continuing to FS Road 261 east of Mount Union Lookout towards County Road 58 through Breezy Pines, extending to Poland Junction.
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All roads leading into the community of Crown King are closed.
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Cleator – Crown King Road (County Road 59) is closed at Cleator.
· Senator Highway to Crown King (County Road 52) is closed at the junction with Poland Rd. (County Road 58). .
· Mayer-Bolada Road (County Road 177) is closed at the Forest Boundary.
· Forest Road 711 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Cow Creek
· Forest Road 362 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Wagner.
· Forest Road 192 is closed
A Yavapai County fire ban is in effect across all fire ban zones. Prescott National Forest Campfire and Smoking Restrictions are also in effect. For AZ Fire Info & Restrictions Information call 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
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Gladiator Fire Update
by Matt Locks
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posted May 21 2012 10:54AM
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Gladiator Fire
May 20, 2012 @ 9:00 pm
Size: Approximately 13,953 acres Containment: 15%
Cause: Human caused; originated from a structure fire on private property
Time/Date Started: Sunday, May 13 at 11:00 am
Location: Community of Crown King (T10N, R1W, S14)
Fuels: Ponderosa pine and chaparral
Values at Risk: Community of Crown King, structures in Battle Flat, Pine Flats, and Turkey Creek areas, communications sites, power lines and historic sites within the Forest.
Residences Destroyed: 4
Terrain: Steep, rugged, difficult access
Resources: 13 Type-1 Crews, 15 Type-2 Crews, 44 Engines, 33 Water Tenders, 5 Dozers, 5 Type 1 Helicopters, 2 Type 2 Helicopters, 4 Type 3 Helicopters, Air Attack
Total no. of personnel: 1,127 personnel Injuries to date: 6
Estimated Costs to Date: $7,066,469
There will be an informal community gathering at 6 pm, Monday, May 20 at the Mayer High School, 17300 East Mule Deer Drive, Spring Valley, AZ. A fire update will be provided.
FIREFIGHTERS MAKE GOOD PROGRESS TODAY
On the southwest flank crews were able to hold contingency lines, and continue burnout along Forest Road 52. A finger of fire crossed FR 52 about 4.5 miles south of Pine Flat. Aerial retardant drops were able to hold this slop over at 40 acres, and stop its westward progress. Fire is creeping slowly south on the east side of FR 52, however.
The northeast flank of the fire was relatively cool, with very little activity. Patrol and monitoring will continue in this area as necessary.
Construction of dozer lines and reduction of vegetation continues north of the fire around Pine Flat.
Today’s activities were good preparation for the changing weather over the next few days. High temperatures, low humidity, and stronger wind will continue to challenge firefighters.
An evacuation order remains in effect for the community of Crown King, and the Battle Flat, Pine Flat, and Turkey Creek areas. For questions about Evacuations and Roadblocks contact the Yavapai County Sherriff’s Office at 928-713-2709. Be aware that rumors of evacuations are abundant, and ONLY evacuation orders issued by the Sheriff’s Office are valid!
Yavapai County issued an air quality update today, advising that smoke from this fire is moving to the northeast toward the Mayer/Dewey area. Your eyes are your best tools to determine if it’s safe to be outside. If it looks smoky, it is probably not a good time for outdoor activities. For more smoke information and air quality forecasts, visit http://www.azfireinfo.com/links.asp#Smoke. The Red Cross Reception Center is staffed if you need to leave your home to get relief from the smoke. It is located at Mayer Elementary School, Mayer, AZ. Red Cross personnel can be reached at 928-237-6751.
A Closure Order is in effect for all Prescott National Forest land south of County Road 177.
The following roads have been closed:
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All roads leading into the community of Crown King are closed.
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Cleator – Crown King Road (County Road 59) is closed at Cleator.
· Senator Highway to Crown King (County Road 52) is closed at the junction with Poland Rd. (County Road 58). .
· Mayer-Bolander Road (County Road 177) is closed at the Forest Boundary.
· Forest Road 711 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Cow Creek.
· Forest Road 362 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Wagner.
· Forest Road 192 is closed
A Yavapai County fire ban is in effect across all fire ban zones. Prescott National Forest Campfire and Smoking Restrictions are also in effect. For AZ Fire Info & Restrictions Information call 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
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Back Off The Air
by Matt Locks
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posted May 20 2012 10:32PM
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We are back off again...in the meantime you can stream the station LIVE on the website and thru our facebook page.
We appreciate your patience and hope to be back on the air again soon! |
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Latest Incident Report
by Matt Locks
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posted May 20 2012 10:28PM
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Incident Overview
The Gladiator Fire was reported on Sunday, May 13, at 11:00 am near community of Crown King. The human caused
fire which originated from a structure fire on private property has now moved onto the Prescott National Forest.
Joe Reinarz's Southwest Area Type 1 Incident Management Team assumed management of the Gladiator Fire on the
evening of Monday, May 14, 2012.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
Gladiator Fire Information: 928-632-4368 or 928-632-4420 (7am to 10pm)
Prescott National Forest Fire Information Hotline: 928-777-5799 (recorded message)
Gladiator Fire Incident Website: http://www.inciweb.orgor http://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott
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Media duty officers: 928-515-9112 or 928-515-9142 (7 am to 10 pm)
Lead public information officer: 505-235-4213.
Basic Information
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Incident Type |
Wildfire |
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Cause |
Human Caused; Originated From A Structure Fire On Private Property |
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Date of Origin |
Sunday May 13th, 2012 approx. 11:00 AM |
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Location |
Community of Crown King (T10N, R1W, S14) |
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Incident Commander |
Joe Reinarz |
Current Situation
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Total Personnel |
1,048 |
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Size |
12,898 acres |
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Percent Contained |
12% |
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Fuels Involved |
Ponderosa pine and chaparral
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Fire Behavior |
High temperatures and low humidity will contribute to very active to extreme fire behavior today, even though winds will be light. Single digit humidity over the fire will be of several hours duration, allowing fire in very dry fuels to steadily increase in intensity. Probability of ignition is 100%, which means any windblown ember will ignite a new fire.
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Significant Events |
There will be a community meeting for area residents at 3 pm, today, May 20 at the Mayer High School, 17300 East Mule Deer Drive, Spring Valley, AZ. From 3 pm to 4 pm a fire update will be provided. From 4 pm to 5 pm a tutorial will be presented on use of Google Earth to determine the location of your property in relation to the Gladiator Fire. An evacuation order remains in effect for the community of Crown King, and the Battle Flat, Pine Flat, and Turkey Creek areas. For questions about Evacuations and Roadblocks contact the Yavapai County Sherriff’s Office at 928-713-2709. Be aware that rumors of evacuations are abundant, and ONLY evacuation orders issued by the Sheriff’s Office are valid! The Red Cross Reception Center is located at Mayer Elementary School, Mayer, AZ. Red Cross personnel can be reached at 928-237-6751.
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Outlook
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Planned Actions |
Crews will continue patrol around Crown King, looking for and suppressing any spot fires which may exist. Firefighters will patrol and hold Forest Road 52, and may perform burnout operations to the west toward Senator Highway if necessary. Crews are clearing brush along Senator Highway, and in the Pine Flat area masticators and chainsaw crews continue to reduce vegetative fuel. On the east side of the fire, crews continue to strengthen contingency lines by clearing vegetation. Light winds today will allow extensive use of helicopter bucket drops to cool the fire’s edge. Smoke will be very visible today over the fire, as unstable air allows the smoke column to build. A hotter, drier trend with higher winds is expected over the next few days.
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Terrain Difficulty |
Steep terrain and limited access
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Remarks |
A Closure Order is in effect for all Prescott National Forest land south of County Road 177. Current Road Closures: All roads leading into the community of Crown King are closed. Cleator – Crown King Road (County Road 59) is closed at Cleator. Senator Highway to Crown King (County Road 52) is closed at the junction with Poland Rd. (County Road 58). Forest Road 192 is closed. Forest Road 711 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Cow Creek. Mayer-Bolander Road (County Road 177) is closed at the Forest Boundary. Forest Road 362 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Wagner. A Yavapai County fire ban is in effect across all fire ban zones. Prescott National Forest Campfire and Smoking Restrictions are also in effect. For AZ Fire Info & Restrictions Information call 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov.
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On The Air!!
by Matt Locks
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posted May 20 2012 6:51PM
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We are back on the Air for now. We are working very hard to get us on 100%....As always you can stream us LIVE on the website and through Facebook . Thanks for your patience
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Latest Report on the Gladiator Fire
by Matt Locks
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posted May 20 2012 12:39PM
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Gladiator Fire - May 20, 2012 @ 9:00 Am
Incident: Gladiator Wildfire
Released: 1:19 hrs. ago
Size: Approximately 12,898 acres Containment: 12%
Cause: Human caused; originated from a structure fire on private property
Time/Date Started: Sunday, May 13 at 11:00 am
Location: Community of Crown King (T10N, R1W, S14)
Fuels: Ponderosa pine and chaparral
Values at Risk: Community of Crown King, structures in Battle Flat, Pine Flats, and Turkey Creek areas, communications sites, power lines and historic sites within the Forest.
Residences Destroyed: 4
Terrain: Steep, rugged, difficult access
Resources: 13 Type-1 Crews, 13 Type-2 Crews, 36 Engines, 5 Dozers, 5 Type 1 Helicopters, 2 Type 2 Helicopters, 2 Type 3 Helicopters, Air Attack
Total no. of personnel: 1,048 personnel Injuries to date: 6
Estimated Costs to Date: $5,222,906
There will be a community meeting for area residents at 3 pm, today, May 20 at the Mayer High School, 17300 East Mule Deer Drive, Spring Valley, AZ. From 3 pm to 4 pm a fire update will be provided. From 4 pm to 5 pm a tutorial will be presented on use of Google Earth to determine the location of your property in relation to the Gladiator Fire.
FORECASTED WEATHER PORTENDS ACTIVE FIRE BEHAVIOR
High temperatures and low humidity will contribute to very active to extreme fire behavior today, even though winds will be light. Single digit humidity over the fire will be of several hours duration, allowing fire in very dry fuels to steadily increase in intensity. Probability of ignition is 100%, which means any windblown ember will ignite a new fire.
Crews will continue patrol around Crown King, looking for and suppressing any spot fires which may exist. Firefighters will patrol and hold Forest Road 52, and may perform burnout operations to the west toward Senator Highway if necessary. Crews are clearing brush along Senator Highway, and in the Pine Flat area masticators and chainsaw crews continue to reduce vegetative fuel. On the east side of the fire, crews continue to strengthen contingency lines by clearing vegetation.
Light winds today will allow extensive use of helicopter bucket drops to cool the fire's edge.
Smoke will be very visible today over the fire, as unstable air allows the smoke column to build.
A hotter, drier trend with higher winds is expected over the next few days.
An evacuation order remains in effect for the community of Crown King, and the Battle Flat,Pine Flat, and Turkey Creek areas. For questions about Evacuations and Roadblocks contact the Yavapai County Sherriff's Office at 928-713-2709. Be aware that rumors of evacuations are abundant, and ONLY evacuation orders issued by the Sheriff's Office are valid!
The Red Cross Reception Center is located at Mayer Elementary School, Mayer, AZ. Red Cross personnel can be reached at 928-237-6751.
A Closure Order is in effect for all Prescott National Forest land south of County Road 177.
The following roads have been closed:
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All roads leading into the community of Crown King are closed.
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Cleator - Crown King Road (County Road 59) is closed at Cleator.
· Senator Highway to Crown King (County Road 52) is closed at the junction with Poland Rd. (County Road 58). .
· Mayer-Bolander Road (County Road 177) is closed at the Forest Boundary.
· Forest Road 711 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Cow Creek.
· Forest Road 362 is closed south of the Forest boundary at Wagner.
· Forest Road 192 is closed
A Yavapai County fire ban is in effect across all fire ban zones. Prescott National Forest Campfire and Smoking Restrictions are also in effect. For AZ Fire Info & Restrictions Information call 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov/.
For more smoke information and air quality forecasts, visit http://www.azfireinfo.com/links.asp#Smoke. Highway conditions can be found at az511.gov,, or by calling 511.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
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Media duty officers: 928-515-9112 or 928-515-9142 (7 am to 10 pm)
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Off The Air
by Matt Locks
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posted May 20 2012 11:30AM
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We are currently off the air due to complications of the Gladiator Fire. We are working to try and get us back up on the air as soon as possible. You can stream us LIVE through the website or on our Facebook page until we are back on air.
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Gladiator Fire
by b-mah
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posted May 18 2012 2:45PM
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Gladiator Fire
May 18, 2012 @ 9:00 am
Size: Approximately 9,900 acres Containment: 5%
Cause: Human caused; originated from a structure fire on private property
Time/Date Started: Sunday, May 13 at 11:00 am
Location: Community of Crown King (T10N, R1W, S14)
Jurisdiction: Private property and the Prescott National Forest
Fuels: Ponderosa pine and chaparral
Values at Risk: Community of Crown King, the Horsethief Basin. Additional threats are posed to Forest Service campgrounds, lookout towers, communications sites, power lines and historic sites within the Forest.
Residences Destroyed: 4
Terrain: Steep, rugged, difficult access
Resources: 8 Type-1 Crews, 8 Type-2 Crews, 18 Engines, 2 Dozers, 4 Type 1 Helicopters, 1 Type 2 Helicopter, 2 Type 3 Helicopters, Air Attack
Total no. of personnel: 640 personnel from 14 states (AK, AZ, CA, FL, ID, IN, MS, MT, NJ, NM, NY, OR, TX, UT)
Injuries to date: 4
Estimated Costs to Date: $2,788,553
An Evacuation Order remains in effect for the community of Crown King. Battle Flat is also under evacuation. The Communities of Pine Flats and Turkey Creek have been given a pre-evacuation advisory. For questions about Evacuations and Roadblocks, please contact the Yavapai County Sherriff’s Office at 928-713-2709.
The Red Cross Shelter/Evacuation Center at the Bradshaw Mountain High School has been closed. Red Cross will open a Reception and Care Center at Mayer Elementary School, 12606 E. Main St., Mayer, AZ on Friday May 18 at 10 a.m. and will remain open until 5 p.m. each day until further notice. Red Cross personnel can be reached at 928-237-6751.
A Red Flag warning due to strong winds from the southwest and low relative humidity has been issued today from 8 a.m. through 10 p.m. The fire is expected to grow primarily northward again today.
On the southwest flank of the fire, crews are using Bull Run Trail as a control feature in conjunction with the road network on the southwest flank, which will also be improved today for use as control lines and as a secondary egress.
Crews continue to create defensible space and construct contingency lines on the west flank of the fire to help keep fire north of Forest Road 92 and protect communication sites and the town of Crown King.
Ahead of the fire to the northwest, crews are starting structure protection and constructing fire lines for control actions as needed in the Pine Flats and Turkey Creek areas.
On the south and east side of the fire crews are holding the Cleator – Crown King Road (County Road 59) and working to suppress fire below the road to the east by utilizing helicopter bucket drops. Burnout operations may be conducted if necessary.
A Closure Order is in effect for all Prescott National Forest land south of County Road 177.
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All roads leading into the community of Crown King are closed.
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Cleator – Crown King Road (County Road 59) is closed at Cleator.
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Senator Highway to Crown King (County Road 52) is closed at Goodwin.
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Forest Road 192 is closed.
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Forest Road 711 is closed at the southern boundary of the Forest.
A Yavapai County Sherriff’s Office Road Closure is also in effect for County Road 177, approximately 4 miles east of Pine Flats as of 6 a.m. on May 18, 2012.
A Yavapai County fire ban in effect across all fire ban zones. Prescott National Forest Campfire and Smoking Restrictions are also in effect. For AZ Fire Info & Restrictions Information call 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov.
Expect smoke in the area. Smoke sensitive individuals in affected areas may need to take action to mitigate the conditions. Remaining indoors, using air conditioning or temporarily moving to an unaffected area may be necessary. Visibility is an excellent measure of air quality. If visibility is ten miles or more, the air quality is good. Visibility of six to nine miles indicates moderate air quality. Three to five miles of visibility indicates conditions unhealthy for sensitive groups. One and a half to two and a half miles, the air quality is unhealthy. One to one and a quarter miles indicates the air quality is very unhealthy. If visibility due to smoke is less than a mile, the air quality is hazardous. For more smoke information and air quality forecasts, visit http://www.azfireinfo.com/links.asp#Smoke.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
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Gladiator Fire - May 17, 2012
by b-mah
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posted May 17 2012 11:07PM
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Gladiator Fire
May 17, 2012 @ 9:00 am
Size: Approximately 6,573 acres Containment: 5%
Cause: Human caused; originated from a structure fire on private property
Time/Date Started: Sunday, May 13 at 11:00 am
Location: Community of Crown King (T10N, R1W, S14)
Jurisdiction: Private property and the Prescott National Forest
Fuels: Ponderosa pine and chaparral
Values at Risk: Community of Crown King and the Horsethief Basin. Additional threats are posed to Forest Service campgrounds, lookout towers, communications sites, power lines and historic sites within the Forest.
Residences Destroyed: 4
Terrain: Steep, rugged, difficult access
Resources: 8 Type-1 Crews, 8 Type-2 Crews, 18 Engines, 4 Type-1 Helicopters, 2 Type-3 Helicopter, 6 Type-1 Airtankers, Air Attack
Total no. of personnel: 537 Injuries to date: 3
A community meeting is planned for Thursday, May 17 at 6:00 pm at the Mayer High School, 17300 E. Mule Deer Drive, Spring Valley, AZ.
An Evacuation Order remains in effect for the community of Crown King.
Effective May 16, the Red Cross Shelter/Evacuation Center was relocated to:
Bradshaw Mountain High School East Campus; 6144 N. Robert Rd; Prescott Valley, AZ 86314. Red Cross personnel can be reached at 928-237-6751.
Extreme fire behavior was exhibited yesterday as the fire spread north and east. Red Flag winds are expected today from noon until 10:00 p.m. with gusts up to 40 mph. Winds from the southwest are expected to continue to push the fire to the north, away from Crown King. Due to the increased growth and progression into steep, rugged terrain, firefighters have shifted their overall strategy to a more indirect approach. However they will continue to look for opportunities to construct direct fireline where they can do so safely and effectively.
Today Airtankers will work the west flank of the fire near the communication towers to check the fire’s spread to allow hot shot crews to scout the area and construct direct line as conditions are favorable. Firefighters continue to remove vegetation around structures, prepare contingency lines cleared down to mineral soil, and thin the canopy in Crown King and around structures and communication towers west of the fire. These efforts are in preparation for terrain driven fire activity anticipated when Red Flag conditions subside.
Yavapai County fire ban in effect across all fire ban zones: Northern, Central, Southern and Eastern. The following are prohibited:
· All open fires and campfires.
· Other types of outdoor fires that produce open flames such as lamp oil in tiki lamps.
· Fireworks and other pyrotechnic displays.
· Outdoor use of equipment that generates open flames or a spark. This restricts the use of welding equipment and chain saws.
Prescott National Forest Campfire and Smoking Restrictions are in effect:
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Campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires (wood, charcoal, and coal burning) are prohibited on all Prescott National Forest lands, roads, and trails; except within developed recreation sites where grills and campfire rings are provided (Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns and heaters meeting safety specifications are allowed).
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Smoking is prohibited except within enclosed vehicles, buildings, or developed recreation sites where the area is cleared of all flammable material.
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Campfires are not allowed at the designated dispersed sites within the Prescott Basin. Metal posts identify designated dispersed sites with a number.
A Closure Order is in effect for all Prescott National Forest land south of County Road 177.
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All roads leading into the community of Crown King are closed.
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Cleator – Crown King Road (County Road 59) is closed at Cleator.
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Senator Highway to Crown King (County Road 52) is closed at Goodwin.
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Forest Road 192 is closed.
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Forest Road 711 is closed at the southern boundary of the Forest.
Expect smoke in the area. Smoke sensitive individuals in affected areas may need to take action to mitigate the conditions. Remaining indoors, using air conditioning or temporarily moving to an unaffected area may be necessary. Visibility is an excellent measure of air quality. If visibility is ten miles or more, the air quality is good. Visibility of six to nine miles indicates moderate air quality. Three to five miles of visibility indicates conditions unhealthy for sensitive groups. One and a half to two and a half miles, the air quality is unhealthy. One to one and a quarter miles indicates the air quality is very unhealthy. If visibility due to smoke is less than a mile, the air quality is hazardous. For more smoke information and air quality forecasts, visit http://www.azfireinfo.com/links.asp#Smoke.
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
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A Message from the GM
by b-mah
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posted May 16 2012 5:26PM
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May 16, 2012
Dear MEGA and BEAT friends and family,
I wanted to keep you updated on the Gladiator Fire in Crown King, AZ.
First and foremost we want to express our gratitude to all of the fire fighters, forest service and emergency personnel that are battling this blaze. We pray for their safety and the safety of our neighbors who reside in the area.
The fire is serious and threatens our transmission facility. Since the fire started four days ago we have been operating on our backup generator due to loss of APS power. We have enough fuel reserves to operate for many days. The concern we have is that the fire could overtake our facility and take us off the air. This is a real possibility! While we are hoping for the best, we are prepared if the fire takes us off the air, we have contingency plans in place should this occur.
We will continue to stream both MEGA and THE BEAT as we move to temporary backup facilities. We will be posting information on our website, Facbook and twitter. If you have not already done so, please sign up for our email blasts and friend us on Facebook and twitter. This will insure that you are up-to-date on the fire and our situation. Also, check in to our website click on our blog for updates as well.
Below are links to our on-air streams, websites, twitter and facebook pages.
www.mega1043.com (fire info/stream/email sign up)
www.azthebeat.com (fire info/stream/email sign up)
www.Facebook.com/mega1043
www.Facbeook.com/azthebeat
www.twitter.com/mega1043
www.twitter.com/thebeatradio
Thanks for your support of our two radio stations. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Michael Mallace
General Manager
Sierra H Broadcasting
michael.mallace@sierrah.com
Sierra H Broadcasting is a veteran founded, privately held, locally owned and operated Arizona corporation that operates two radio stations, KAJM-FM and KNRJ-FM, in the Phoenix metro area. These two formats: MEGA 104.3 FM – Arizona’s Old School and The BEAT 101.1 FM – Hip Hop Hits also entertain listeners throughout Northern Arizona, including the Flagstaff, Payson, Prescott and Sedona communities. MEGA and The BEAT can be heard on all smart-phones and world wide on the web at azthebeat.com and mega1043.com.
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Gladiator Fire - May 16, 2012
by b-mah
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posted May 16 2012 3:02PM
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Gladiator Fire
May 16, 2012 @ 8:30 am
Size: approximately 2,000 acres Containment: 5%
Cause: Human Caused; originated from a structure fire on private property
Time/Date Started: Sunday, May 13 @11:00am
Location: Community of Crown King (T10N, R1W, S14)
Jurisdiction: Private property and the Prescott National Forest
Fuels: Ponderosa pine and chaparral
Values at Risk: The community of Crown King and the Horsethief Basin. Additional threats are posed to Forest Service campgrounds, lookout towers, communications sites, power lines and historic sites within the forest.
Terrain: Steep, rugged, difficult access
Resources: 3 Type-1 Crews, 4 Type-2 Crews, 11 Engines, 3 Type-1 Helicopters, 1 Type-3 Helicopter, 6 Type-1 Airtankers, Air Attack
Total no. of personnel: 462 Injuries to date: 3
A community meeting is planned for Wednesday, May 16 at 6:00 pm at the Mayer High School, 17300 E. Mule Deer Drive, Spring Valley, AZ.
Forecasted drier weather and associated strong winds continue to complicate suppression efforts. Winds from the southeast and south are expected to push the fire north and northwest today. Fire behavior is expected to be extreme. Firefighters continue working to suppress the fire and provide structure protection to homes. Firefighting resources will focus on perimeter control when they can do so safely. Crews are also working to protect structures and communication sites west of the fire. In areas where direct attack is not feasible, they will focus on protecting individual structures ahead of the fire.
An Evacuation Order remains in effect for the community of Crown King.
The Evacuation Center for residents of Crown King is at: Mayer High School, 17300 E. Mule Deer Drive; Spring Valley, AZ. Red Cross personnel can be reached at 928-237-6751.
Yavapai County fire ban in effect across all fire ban zones: Northern, Central, Southern and Eastern. The following are prohibited:
· All open fires and campfires.
· Other types of outdoor fires that produce open flames such as lamp oil in tiki lamps.
· Fireworks and other pyrotechnic displays.
· Outdoor use of equipment that generates open flames or a spark. This restricts the use of welding equipment and chain saws.
Prescott National Forest Campfire and Smoking Restrictions and Closure Order are in effect, they are as follows:
-
Campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires (wood, charcoal, and coal burning) are prohibited on all Prescott National Forest lands, roads, and trails; except within developed recreation sites where grills and campfire rings are provided (Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns and heaters meeting safety specifications are allowed).
-
Smoking is prohibited except within enclosed vehicles, buildings, or developed recreation sites where the area is cleared of all flammable material.
-
Campfires are not allowed at the designated dispersed sites within the Prescott Basin. Metal posts identify designated dispersed sites with a number.
A Closure Order is in effect for all Prescott National Forest land south of County Road 177.
-
Road Closures: All roads leading into the community of Crown King are closed.
-
Cleator – Crown King Road (County Road 59) is closed at Cleator.
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Senator Highway to Crown King (County Road 52) is closed at Goodwin.
-
Forest Road 192 is closed.
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Forest Road 711 is closed at the southern boundary of the Forest.
Visibility is an excellent measure of air quality. If visibility is ten miles or more, the air quality is good. Visibility of six to nine miles indicates moderate air quality. Three to five miles of visibility indicates conditions unhealthy for sensitive groups. One and a half to two and a half miles, the air quality is unhealthy. One to one and a quarter miles indicates the air quality is very unhealthy. If visibility due to smoke is less than a mile, the air quality is hazardous. Smoke sensitive persons in affected areas may need to take action to mitigate the conditions. Remaining indoors, using air conditioning or temporarily moving to an unaffected area may be necessary.
For more smoke information and air quality forecasts, please visit the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality website at http://www.azfireinfo.com/links.asp#Smoke .
The public can obtain fire information via the following:
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Keep updated with the information
by b-mah
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posted May 16 2012 3:01PM
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Click here to check out what is going on with the gladiator fire!
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