July 3, 2013

Mt. Lemmon Blaze Grows Slowly, to 280 Acres

50% contained, but flareups reported when high winds hit area near Molino Basin overnight Tuesday.

The wildfire burning at a low elevation on Mount Lemmon was 50 percent contained as of Wednesday afternoon, but a wind-driven flareup had crews scrambling the Forest Service reported.

The Prison Fire, burning near Molino Basin, had consumed 280 acres of grass, brush and some scrub oak, the federal Incident Information System website reported.

The windows drove flames across fire lines for a gain of approximately 40 acres. Helicopter water drops were being used, and 30 firefighters were on the lines.

Coronado National Forest officials said that as a reminder, visitors to Arizona wild lands are restricted in uses of fire. All campfires, welding, target shooting and smoking are banned. Fireworks also are banned on Forest Service land.

Use of pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns and heaters possessing shut off devices are allowed but must be used in areas clear of grass and other fine fuels, officials said in a press release.

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