Seeing Smoke When the Fire is Largely Contained

When a fire is declared contained, it does not mean that the fire is extinguished or out. Containment signifies that a control line has been completed around the fire, which can be reasonably expected to stop the fire’s spread. Think of a campfire pit or ring with the ground around it scraped down to dirt. If you build your campfire in the ring or pit, you can be reasonably confident that your fire is contained. It’s still a fire—with heat and smoke and flames—but the assumption is that with appropriate action the fire will not spread beyond that dedicated area.

As the high temperature and low humidity result in smoldering areas becoming more active, people near the fire will most certainly see smoke within the perimeter where it hasn’t been seen for several days. This burning activity and smoke will continue to be visible in the interior of the fire until significant rainfall or snow occurs.

The entire fire perimeter is being monitored and patrolled daily by crews and engines. Any fire that threatens the containment lines is being extinguished. In the event that you feel you or your property is immediately threatened please call 911.

 

Smoke from the Okanogan Complex visible from ICP at Omak stampede grounds. 12 Sept. 2015, 5:45 p.m.