Evacuation Ordered in Gila County Amid Wildfire
Gila County, Arizona. – Residents in a community northeast of the valley have been instructed to evacuate their homes as a wildfire, sparked by lightning, expands over thousands of acres.
What we know:
The Billy Fire ignited on July 9th in the Tonto National Forest, located about 15 miles south of Young.
Evacuation Order
Officials in Gila County have issued a “Go” alert specifically for residents of Murphy Ranch.
“The Billy fire increased its activity around 3 PM,” according to officials on August 4th. “The Pueblo Canyon fire is pushing towards Murphy Ranch, which necessitates firefighters to implement structural protection measures and conduct tactical burns around the area before the main fire front arrives.”
By the Numbers:
As of August 5th, the Billy Fire has burned 2,515 acres and is 65% contained. Over 100 personnel are currently engaged in firefighting efforts.
Understanding Arizona’s “Ready, Set, Go!” Evacuation Protocol
Ready – Prepare Now
Be aware of potential dangers that could impact your community.
- Start making preparations for seasonal threats.
- Enroll in the County/Tribal Emergency Notification System.
- Stay connected with local emergency management, sheriff’s office, and public health via social media.
- Create family evacuation and communication plans, including contact details and meeting points.
- Assemble an emergency GO kit with sufficient food, water, and supplies for at least 72 hours. Don’t forget essentials for health, like face masks and hand sanitizers. Start with the five Ps: People and pet supplies, prescriptions, important papers, personal items, and valuables.
- Check in with neighbors and loved ones via video calls or phone chats to ensure everyone’s readiness.
- Stay updated on local news, weather alerts, and public health advice.
Set – Exercise Caution
Be conscious of significant threats in your area.
- Residents may want to consider relocating to stay with family or friends outside the affected area. It’s wise to avoid contact with anyone who is ill and follow health guidelines during the move.
- Grab your emergency GO kit.
- Consider any special needs for family members, pets, and livestock.
- Keep up with the latest updates from safety and health officials.
This may be your only notice. Emergency Services can’t promise they’ll reach everyone if conditions worsen quickly. It’s time to be ready.
Go! – Evacuate
Your area faces imminent and potentially life-threatening dangers.
- Residents should evacuate immediately to shelters or to stay with family or friends outside the danger zone. Maintaining distance from sick individuals and implementing public health recommendations is important.
- If you choose not to heed this advice, be aware that emergency services may not be able to assist you further.
- Follow emergency personnel instructions, use designated evacuation routes, and avoid blocked areas.
For further information: https://ein.az.gov
