PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

EMERGENCY NOTICE REDUCED

LEVEL 2 -  (August 20, 2008 – 7:00 AM)

The Washington Incident Management Team 2 thanks you for your cooperation and understanding during the recent fire evacuations along the Hawk Creek Ranch Road and the Dobb Canyon area.  During major events such as this, often citizens have questions and concerns.  The following information is provided to help answer some of these questions and minimize concerns.

·        The Emergency Notice has been reduced from a Level 3 – Mandatory evacuation to a Level 2 – Precautionary Notice.

·        Local residents are now being allowed to return to their homes.

·        The road will only be open to local traffic.

·        Although the current assessment of the fire looks good, the situation can change and therefore you should be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice. 

·        Please stay out of the burn area.  Your presence may hamper the efforts of the firefighters.  Please stay clear of the fire area as it will remain dangerous for several days.

·        Residents are urged to take caution and stay clear from any burned or fallen trees, down power lines, or heavy equipment working in the area.  Your safety is our primary concern. 

·        Fire personnel are patrolling all areas of the fire. 

·        Know where your pets are.  Keep them in the house or garage.

·        Please drive slowly and carefully through the areas where personnel are working.

·        The public is urged to be cautious under the projected dry and warm weather conditions.

As the situation changes, we will work to keep the residents of the area updated.  For additional questions please call the Swanson Lake Fire Information Line:

(509) 725-8392