Fire crews attack Lee Fire
CAROLINE LOBSINGER | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 5 years, 3 months AGO
I grew up in the Tri-Cities, Wash., and have always loved to write. I attended the University of Washington, where I earned a double major in journalism and political science, with an area of emphasis in history. I am the fifth out of six kids — don't believe any of the stories that my siblings tell. To be able to tell others stories and take photos for a living is a dream come true — and I considered myself blessed to be a community journalist. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, hiking and spending time outdoors, genealogy, reading, and watching the UW Huskies and the Seattle Seahawks. I am a servant to my cat, Frankie, who yes, will eat anything and everything in sight … even wedding cookies. | May 7, 2021 1:00 AM
COOLIN — Heavy equipment has built an indirect line around the 30-acre Lee Fire reported near Coolin on Thursday, according to Idaho Department of Lands officials.
The fire, which was reported at 10 acres earlier in the day grew to 30 acres by evening, Scott Phillips, IDL policy and communications chief, said.
About 25 firefighters, including heavy equipment operators, responded to the fire.
Philips said crews were able to build an indirect line around the fire, allowing IDL to release rural fire departments that responded to the scene to assist.
"We greatly appreciate the assistance provided by the West Priest Lake Fire District, Coolin Cavanaugh Bay Fire Protection District, and the North of the Narrows Fire District," he said.
Phillips said the department planned to keep resources on scene through the night. Additional crews arriving Friday morning will include 15 firefighters and a water tender.
It's likely that those in the Coolin area were able to see the fire illuminating the sky Thursday after the sun set, Phillips said.
An initial attack on the fire was reported shortly after 3:30 p.m. Thursday with the fire noted at about 10 acres. In an update released about 7 p.m., the fire had grown to 30 acres.
Early in the incident an engine became stuck in a meadow, but it was safely removed and sustained no damage, Phillips said.
Agencies responding to the fire included Idaho Department of Lands, West Priest Lake Fire District, Coolin Cavanaugh Bay Fire Protection District, and the North of the Narrows Fire District responded to the fire. From IDL, crews from the Helitac, and Pend Oreille Lake and Priest Lake supervisory areas responded.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
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