Steep, rugged forested terrain near the Helena FireContainment on the Helena Fire is now at 80%, with no growth in the fire's perimeter, which is holding at 116 acres. Firefighters continue to make steady progress by improving existing handlines and going direct on the fire's edge wherever conditions safely allow. Crews have taken advantage of cooler overnight temperatures, increased humidity, and morning shade to keep the fire well within established control lines.
Today's focus remains on strengthening containment by reinforcing handlines and extinguishing remaining interior hot spots. On the western edge of the fire, smaller, specialized crews are working in steep, previously unsafe terrain to construct direct handlines. Elsewhere, firefighters are using bladder bags to mop up hot spots and secure the fire's interior.
Additional crews assigned to the road division are improving contingency lines along Manzanita Ridge and East Fork Road. These efforts include clearing excess vegetation to improve visibility, reducing available fuels, and ensuring safe access for both firefighters and the public. Road tread improvements are also underway to support better mobility and response operations.
The support of partner agencies such as CAL FIRE and Bureau of Land Management has been critical to suppression efforts. By utilizing agency, partner agency, and contracted resources, control lines were able to be established south and east of the fire perimeter towards the North Fork and west of the East Fork, respectively. On the northwestern perimeter, lines continue to be built, where able. Where resources have not been able to go direct on the ground, air support has been critical.
With high temperatures and rugged terrain, we continue to prioritize firefighter and public safety as suppression efforts move forward. Additional resources remain committed to incidents to build upon the gains already made.
If visiting the area of Helena, recreators are advised to use caution when driving and to limit interactions with fire personnel who are engaged with fire suppression efforts. We ask the public to please avoid areas where crews are working. Your cooperation helps firefighters contain these fires quickly and safely.