Comments on: 500 Acre Water Wheel Fire North of Payson- Day 1

By: Mike

Mike — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 22:41:51 +0000

I agree with Dan , the past fire ( Pack Rat ) was right behind my house before the USFS did anything about it, thank god it rained.

By: Carl Dobbins

Carl Dobbins — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:28:03 +0000

I’m not a fan of the USFS multi-use management plan that allows the over-growth of plants in the forest surrounding Payson. However, I would never say the USFS waits to fight a fire. The Diamond Point spotting tower, the radio alerts and responses, the stationed Hot Shot crews and the preparedness arrangements with local fire departments argue against such an irresponsible post. Whatever were you thinking?

I can see the fire from my house in Payson. Step outside and the wind will tell you which way it is headed if for some reason you don’t believe fire heads uphill.

By: Dan Marjanek

Dan Marjanek — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 15:46:04 +0000

I enjoy your news coverage. I’d enjoy it even more if you’d show a map of the Water Wheel fire you’re covering north of Payson. What specific areas have burned and what direction is the fire heading?

Also, in the past, it seems the firefighters have to wait until a fire gets to a certain level of destruction before they send in serious fire fighting equipment such as planes, to put out a fire. Often by then the fire is out of control. In these dry conditions, logically they should hit it hard as soon as someone smells smoke to stop it before the fire gets out of control. If you smelled smoke while you’re driving your car, would wait until the flames are at a certain level about your hood before you took serious action. Maybe the firefighters are stuck with a certain protocol instead of common sense.

Thanks

By: Crystal

Crystal — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 14:04:21 +0000

My Mom and Sister live in Beaver Valley. I’m praying for everyone up there. God bless and stay safe.