Ridge Fire contained

A fire that flared back up several days after it was first reported neared 300 acres in size before it was contained last week. Though structures in the area were threatened, none were ultimately lost.

The Ridge Fire was located on Douglas Rd southwest of Sundance and was first reported at 2 p.m. on July 9. It was discovered to be a flare-up from a previous fire on July 6.

On day one, according to Fire Warden Charlie Harrison, it displayed extreme fire behavior and the rate of spread was rapid, with spotting ahead of the main fire.

As the fire grew to around 200 acres, fire lines were established with dozers and hand crews supported by engines. Firing operations helped to secure the perimeter and around structures.

On the first day, a sizeable response saw four overhead units, 12 engines, two water tenders, two crew vehicles, three dozers, four air tankers, two helicopters and an air attack platform on site.

By the second day, all fire lines and firing operations had been completed and the final acreage was reported to be 282 acres. Crews continued to mop up the hot spots and strengthen the fire lines, while the threat to structures was considered to have been eliminated.

The second day response was almost as large as the first, though only one helicopter remained from the air response.

Mop-up continued on the third day, while crews patrolled the fire. Seven engines, two water tenders, a dozer and a crew vehicle remained on scene and planned to continue patrol for the next few days.

No evacuations were needed, no structures were damaged or destroyed by the fire and no injuries or fatalities to civilians or firefighters were reported.

Agencies that supported Crook County Fire during the incident included Black Hills National Forest, High Plains District BLM, Wyoming State Forestry, Crook County Emergency Management, Crook County Sheriff's Office, Crook County Road & Bridge, fire zones from Oshoto, Farrell, Beulah and Carlile, department firefighters from Sundance, Moorcroft and Pine Haven.

Donna's Diner and the Pine Haven Auxiliary assisted with meals, with citizens also donating food and drinks.

At time of going to press, firefighters continue to patrol the fire.