MARICOPA COUNTY, Ariz. — A wildfire burned more than 200 acres just west of a popular recreation area on Saturday and Sunday, according to the Tonto National Forest.
The Sugar Fire ignited on Saturday near Forest Road 402, on the west side of Sugarloaf Mountain, near mile marker 204 on State Route 87, which is also known as the Beeline Highway.
The fire is across the highway from the Four Peaks Recreation Area.
The Sugar Fire was first reported at 11:35 a.m. on Saturday and burned 240 acres. However, crews have been able to stop the fire from growing and officials say it is 70% contained. The fire did not grow in size on Sunday.
The fire was originally being fought by two hotshot crews, five fire engines, a Type 1 helicopter, two single-engine air tankers and four large air tankers, but the air tankers, hotshot crews and a Type 3 helicopter have been released.
Two engines are still on the edge of the fire patrolling and making sure the fire does not grow.
The public is asked to avoid the area.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
This is a developing story and more details will be added as they are made available.
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How to prevent wildfires
With temperatures beginning to heat up, fires are likely to continue, but there are some ways that you can prevent them from starting.
According to the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, some ways to prevent a wildfire from sparking include:
- Make sure a campfire is out by dousing it with water, stirring it and repeating until it is cool to the touch when you touch it with the back of your hand
- Refrain from using a chainsaw or welding equipment during windy or high fire danger days
- Use proper burn barrels when burning debris, never leave the fire unattended and make sure it is completely out before walking away. Also never burn on windy days.
- Don't target shoot or use fireworks on state lands, as that is not allowed.
Drivers can also help prevent wildfires with these tips:
- Do not throw cigarette butts out of a car window
- Check your tire pressure, as under-inflated tires can cause your wheel to touch a road or trail and cause sparks
- Never park or drive on dry grass or brush, as a hot engine can spark a fire
- Tighten trailer chains and other equipment so they don't drag on the ground and cause sparks
- Check your brake pads because worn pads can also throw sparks due to metal-on-metal contact
The ADFFM also has a mobile app that will alert users when a wildfire is in their area. The app can be downloaded in the Apple App Store or in the Google Play Store.
And there are some ways to keep your home safe in case of wildfires, according to The National Fire Protection Agency. Those include:
- Make sure your roof and gutters are clear of dead leaves and debris that could catch fire
- Replace or repair any loose or missing shingles to prevent embers from getting inside your home
- Install 1/8 inch metal mesh screening to reduce embers that could pass through vents into eaves
- Clean debris from attic vents and install the 1/8 inch metal mesh on those vents as well
- Repair or replace damaged or loose window screens and any broken windows
- Screen or box-in areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to prevent debris and other flammable materials from getting in
- Move any flammable materials away from exterior walls, including mulch, plants, leaves and firewood piles
- Remove anything stored underneath decks or porches
The NFPA also advises keeping lawns and native grasses mowed to a height of four inches or less, keeping at least eight feet of space between trees, along with having fire-resistant construction on your home, including fire-resistant roofing and siding.
The NFPA also says to know and practice an emergency action plan with all of the occupants of your home in case of a wildfire, as that can save lives.
Ready, Set, Go! Wildfire Evacuation
If evacuations are required due to a wildfire, they will be issued using the 'Ready, Set, Go' method, according to the Arizona Emergency Information Network.
If a 'Ready' alert is issued, that means you need to be aware of hazards that can threaten your community and make sure you have an emergency kit ready to go with enough supplies to last 72 hours.
If a 'Set' alert is issued, that means that you should consider voluntarily evacuating to a shelter or go to family or friends who are outside of the evacuation zone.
If a 'Go' alert is issued that means you need to evacuate immediately.
You can learn more about the 'Ready, Set, Go' system by clicking here.
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