Logistics of fighting the Elevenmile Fire

One of the largest fires in our region is still burning west of Challis in the Salmon-Challis National Forest.

After an aerial flight last night to measure the extent of the fire, officials say it has spread to over 4000 acres and is at 0 percent containment.

Its is currently extreme fire conditions in the area, so the priority is firefighter safety, public safety. There is an area closure in effect because of the fire and that is to protect the public and also the firefighter so they can do their job safely.

Giving firefighters the information they need to do their job is in itself a really big job. At the Challis community center, all the logistical information is processed. Everything from knowing where to put the firefighters to where their supplies should go.

“The big thing is food, water,” says Doug Clark who is running logistics for the Eleven Mile Fire team. “We’ve got to make sure they have all the necessary supplies to fight the fire.”

Countless man hours are spent making sure all the firefighters are hydrated, fed, and have a place to rest. Sanitation is especially important as nothing can stop a team of firefighters quicker than a fast spreading illness.

“If someone does catch a cold it will go very fast throughout the people,” says Clark. “So what we try to do is make sure we have hand wash stations everywhere, we’ve got a shower unit. So sanitation is something we really stay on top of.”

Others make sure the firefighters are paid and that the proper equipment is never lacking. A meteorologist is also on hand to help anticipate changes in the weather patterns.

This fire is still very active. As of right now, no structures are threatened and the fire is moving in a north northeast direction.