Labor Mountain, Wildcat Fires Update: 6,000 & 8,800 Acres

Two large fires continue to grow in the Cle Elum Ranger District of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

Labor Mountain Fire Update

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The Labor Mountain Fire, which a lightning strike sparked on Sept. 1, 10 miles north of Cle Elum, is over 6,000 acres and seven percent contained.

Thursday, crews extended, connected, and improved lines around the fire perimeter. Crews continued to conduct burn out operations, which allowed firefighters to strengthen containment lines in Mill Creek Drainage and the southern end of the fire. Crews also removed fuels along Shaser Creek Road.

Structure protection efforts along Beverly Creek and Teanaway Roads are nearing completion.

Wildcat Fire Update

Meanwhile, the Wildcat Fire, sparked by lightning on Aug. 25, 30 miles northwest of Naches, is over 8,800 acres with eight percent containment. Fire activity increased Thursday due to warm and dry conditions. Helicopters dropped water on hotspots on the south side of Bumping Lake.

Crews will continue to remove debris along Bumping River Road. Level 2 evacuation notices continue for Goose Prairie and Bumping River Road.

10 Tips To Prevent Wildfires

Smokey The Bear said it best, "only you can prevent wildfires." Well, it's a lot easier said than done, Smokey. Great name for a bear trying to warn us about fire hazards, by the way.

In order to prevent wildfires, you have to first know how they can be prevented. Here are 10 tips provided by the Department Of Interior that will help you in your every day life, so you can enjoy being outside, camping, and having bonfires without it turning into a problem.

Here are their 10 tips, along with some simplified explanations from me.

Gallery Credit: Cort Freeman

Source: Labor Mountain and Wildcat Fires Grow in Okanogan-Wenatchee Forest