Bartlett Fire Rages Across 1,000 Acres: Evacuations and Road Closures in Effect

The fire is burning on the northwest side of Bartlett Lake, north of Bartlett Flats. Here are the latest details.

MARICOPA COUNTY, Ariz. — Crews are battling several fires that were sparked by monsoon storms in the Tonto National Forest. One of the most significant is the Bartlett Fire.

The Bartlett Fire has grown to approximately 1,000 acres, according to the Tonto National Forest’s Facebook page. Crews continued to fight the fire from the air until nightfall made it too dangerous to fly.

Evacuations have been ordered for Bartlett Recreation sites, and Bartlett Dam Road is closed. This fire is among nine ignited by monsoon storms that brought thunder, lightning, and high winds.

Prioritization of resources depends on the fire’s threat to communities and infrastructure. This is a developing story, with updates expected as more information becomes available.

Fire Update: Crews are responding to multiple new fires across the Tonto National Forest.

Residents in areas prone to wildfires are urged to have an emergency supplies kit ready for quick evacuation. The NFPA recommends storing these emergency supplies in an accessible, durable container.

Essentials include three gallons of water per person, a three-day supply of ready-to-eat food, prescription medications, and important documents in a waterproof container.

Additional recommended items include a battery-powered radio, dust masks, a sleeping bag or blanket for each person, matches, and a change of clothing stored in a waterproof container. For a comprehensive checklist, consult the NFPA’s guidelines.

Arizona’s ‘Ready, Set, Go!’ wildfire evacuation protocol advises residents to be prepared and aware of potential hazards. When a ‘Ready’ alert is issued, residents should ensure their emergency kit is packed. A ‘Set’ alert means residents should consider voluntary evacuation, while a ‘Go’ alert signals the need for immediate evacuation.

To prevent fires at home, the Arizona Fire & Medical Authority advises installing working smoke alarms and following manufacturers’ guidelines for using appliances. Additionally, households should have an escape plan, with all family members aware of the procedure.

To prevent wildfires, the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management suggests ensuring campfires are fully extinguished, avoiding the use of chainsaws or welding equipment on high fire danger days, and using proper burn barrels.

Drivers can help by not discarding cigarette butts from vehicles, maintaining proper tire pressure, and avoiding parking on dry grass.

To protect homes, the NFPA recommends clearing roofs and gutters of debris, maintaining a defensible space around properties, and using fire-resistant building materials.

Keeping lawns mowed, trees spaced, and embers screened out of vents can significantly reduce wildfire risks. Practicing an emergency action plan is also critical.

For more information on staying safe during Arizona’s wildfire season, visit our news site on ArizonaNews.org.