General
Roaring Circle Fire Rages Through 1,000 Acres in Arizona Blaze
The Circle Fire is burning near the Romero Fire in Pinal County. Here are the latest details.
PINAL COUNTY, Ariz. — Fire crews are currently battling the Circle Fire, which is burning southwest of Kearny, Arizona. The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM) has reported that the fire has consumed over 1,000 acres.
Located 14.5 miles southwest of Kearny near Antelope Peak, shifting winds have now driven the flames eastward. Crews are employing two bulldozers to improve a road that will serve as a barrier against the advancing fire.
Sparked on Friday, the Circle Fire is in proximity to the Romero Fire, both just north of the previous Freeman Fire. Owing to high winds, aircraft are currently grounded and unable to fight the fire from the air.
pic.twitter.com/xUp81DBwBw— AZ Dept. Forestry and Fire Management (@azstateforestry) July 20, 2024
12News will continue to provide updates on the Circle Fire as more information becomes available.
🔥 #CircleFire Update at 6pm: Estimated acreage 1,000+. The winds have shifted 180 degrees and are pushing the fire east. Crews are repositioning to initiate firing operations ahead of the advancing flames. 2 dozers are improving a road that the crews will burn off of.… pic.twitter.com/XqBbBu0fKu
— AZ Dept. Forestry and Fire Management (@azstateforestry) July 21, 2024#CircleFire estimated at 200 acres and burning at the base of Antelope Peak. Fire is backing through grass and brush. #RomeroFire pic.twitter.com/aJEXGKLqRu
— AZ Dept. Forestry and Fire Management (@azstateforestry) July 20, 2024#RomeroFire approximately 1 mile north of the Freeman Fire.
🔥 #CircleFire east of the Freeman Fire. #AZFire #AZForestry #PinalCounty pic.twitter.com/FwCOVC87MF
Preparedness Kit for Wildfire Risk
Residents in wildfire-prone areas should have emergency supplies, especially as fire activity increases across Arizona. Create a kit long before an evacuation is necessary and keep it accessible.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) advises storing supplies in a plastic tub, suitcase, or similar container. Each person should have three gallons of water and a three-day supply of non-perishable food. Include a first-aid kit, prescription medications, contact lenses, and non-prescription drugs.
Store important documents, such as insurance policies and bank records, in a waterproof container. Additional recommended items include a sleeping bag, a battery-powered radio, a dust mask, matches in a waterproof container, and a change of clothing in a waterproof container.
If affected by a wildfire, Arizona residents can seek assistance from the American Red Cross by calling 1-800-842-7349.
‘Ready, Set, Go!’ Wildfire Evacuation
The Arizona Emergency Information Network uses the ‘Ready, Set, Go’ method for wildfire evacuations. A ‘Ready’ alert means being aware of hazards and having an emergency kit ready for 72 hours. A ‘Set’ alert advises voluntary evacuation to a shelter or safe location. A ‘Go’ alert requires immediate evacuation.
Learn more about the ‘Ready, Set, Go’ system by visiting the Arizona Emergency Information Network.
Home Fire Prevention
The Arizona Fire & Medical Authority provides fire prevention tips. Each home needs working smoke alarms on every level and inside all sleeping areas. Use appliances according to manufacturer recommendations to prevent fires from overheating, shorts, and sparks.
Families should have an escape plan for every room. Stay low to the floor when escaping and avoid opening doors that are hot. Select a rendezvous point outside the home and call for help once outside.
Preventing Wildfires
To prevent wildfires, ensure campfires are completely out, avoid using equipment that can spark fires during high-risk days, and use proper burn barrels. Do not leave fires unattended and extinguish them completely. Avoid target shooting or using fireworks on state lands.
Drivers can help by not throwing cigarette butts out of windows, checking tire pressure, avoiding parking on dry grass, and ensuring trailer chains don’t drag on the ground to prevent sparks.
To keep your home safe, maintain clear roofs and gutters, repair any loose shingles, and use metal mesh for vents. Keep flammable materials away from exterior walls and store items away from decks and porches.
The NFPA suggests keeping lawns trimmed to four inches or less, maintaining space between trees, and using fire-resistant construction materials.
Arizona Wildfire Season
Get the latest safety information and home protection tips during Arizona’s wildfire season by following local authorities and updates from 12News.
Tags: #Circle #Fire #burns #acres #Arizona
Categories: wildfire,news,local,arizona,home
URL: /circle-fire-burns-more-than-1000-acres-in-arizona