On Wednesday, the Brimstone Fire burning about 10-miles northwest of Merlin threatened roughly 40 homes.
Officials said there are level two evacuations in place for homes on Quartz Creek and Hog Creek roads, both of which have been shut down. That means residents on those roads should be prepared to leave at a moment’s notice.
However, officials are telling other people in the general area to also be prepared…just in case.
In Merlin, thick smoke has settled in the sky. Living near the Hogs Creek road evacuation area is Stephanie Porter.
“We have all our important papers, all of the medicines we would need,” began Porter.
“We have it all by the door.”
Officials said the Brimstone Fire is between 1,600 and 2,000 acres. As of Wednesday afternoon about 40 homes were threatened.
“However, it’s important to remember the fire isn’t burning in anyone’s back yard at the moment,” said Jenny Hall, one of the spokespeople for the Brimstone Fire.
Conditions could change though. So fire officials are telling residents to prepare and have an evacuation plan.
“We’ve got an RV we’re just starting to pack right now just in case,” said Merlin resident, Sandra Hauckes.
Back at Stephanie Porter’s home, her necessities are packed and a sign reading “Thank you Firefighters” hangs nearby.
“We would be in a whole lot of trouble if we didn’t have all these incredible people helping save our property, our homes and our lives,” said Porter.
She said she’s grateful, but at the same time…
“[I’m] prepared. We don’t want to be caught in the middle of the night and not be able to grab any animals,” said Porter as she played with her dog Zelda.
“She’s my most important valuable,” Porter said.
The things most important to her are now ready to go, should the worst happen and the fire spreads.
Officials said they’re remaining confident that they’ll be able to keep the fire under control.
Containment went from zero to 10% overnight from Tuesday to Wednesday.
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