VIDEO/PHOTOS: The Butler Fire, which has been testing containment lines since July 20, has seen a mix of spot fires and rollouts, particularly on the north and south ends west of the Salmon River. East of the river, the fire exhibited moderate growth, remaining active in the Crapo Creek drainage. A new line of retardant has been deployed to limit its forward progression as crews work to reinforce handlines. Firefighters are constructing a direct line from Yellow Jacket Ridge down to Sawyers Bar Road. The fire reached Sawyers Bar Road in two locations, but firefighters and aircraft successfully prevented it from crossing the North Fork Salmon River.
“Firefighters are actively working to fire using full suppression tactics,” said Orleans Complex Public Information Officer Deborah Carlisi. During efforts to contain the Butler Fire, three firefighters were injured in a tree strike incident. They were transported to Redding for further medical care. “When one of the firefighters yelled tree, and a tree that had been burned had fallen over and struck the three firefighters,” said Carlisi. The Forest Service has not released the names of the injured firefighters. Carlisi reported that two of the firefighters have already been released from the hospital, while the third remains in Redding, California, receiving medical care.
