Unified Command:

Oregon Department of Forestry Incident Management Team 2

Fremont National Forest

Information Contact:

541-943-3513

541-943-0998

Winter Fire Update

July 26, 2002

8:00 AM

Fire crews are feeling good about the progress made on the Winter Fire over the last few days. The west flank of the fire is still the most active portion, but burnout operations and dozer line construction are advancing in that area.

The situation on the remainder of the fire is good with containment lines holding, and crews patrolling for hot spots and mopping up. An additional task force of 125 National Guard troops will arrive today to assist with mop-up. They represent the Engineering Task Force from Salem. There are currently 1284 firefighters assigned to the Winter Fire.

The fire has grown minimally in the last 24 hours in spite of some windy conditions last night. The size of the fire is now at 34,461 acres and is 55% contained. Full containment is still expected by August 1.

The helicopter that made the emergency landing on Wednesday due to mechanical engine failure is scheduled for repair today and may be available for air operations within the next two days.

The predicted weather over the fire continues to be of concern to firefighters. There is a Fire Weather Watch Saturday through Sunday for strong north winds and low humidity.

A handful of very minor injuries have occurred on the Winter Fire. “I continue to be amazed at the outstanding safety record on this fire, given the rugged terrain and extreme fire conditions,” declared Lee Oman, Deputy Incident Commander.

The City of Paisley is posting fire information on its web page at www.paisley.presys.com.

Resources Currently Assigned To the Winter Fire

Hand Crews	39
Engines	34
Helicopters	6
Dozers	16
Water Tenders	16
Total Personnel	1284

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