A wildland fire near Bailey on Tuesday afternoon prompted an pre-evacuation warning as firefighters used helicopter drops to battle the blaze.
Platte Canyon Fire Department and additional crews at about 4:30 p.m. battled the fire near Holmes Gulch Way, according to the fire department.
The fire was reported to be about 5 acres at 8 p.m. and two air tankers were ordered to assist firefighting efforts.
NEW: Holmes Gulch (CO-JEX) 5 miles East of Bailey CO. (39 24 31N X 105 23 25W) 5 acres. T2 and T3 Helicopters on scene w/ local resources. Lead, 2 Airtankers ordered.
— Predictive Services (@RMACCNewsNotes)
Some residents of the area received a Level 1 Evacuation notice, alerting them about the fire and advising they prepare for possible evacuation orders.
The fire is about five miles east of Bailey. The ignition source of the fire has not been confirmed, but dry lightning moved through the area on Tuesday afternoon, the fire department said.
Also on Tuesday, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office at 6 p.m. implemented temporary Stage 1 Fire Restrictions because of dry conditions and possible wildfire dangers. Prohibited activities in the county, pursuant of the order, include: fireworks, open burning, including “bonfires,” and any fire or recreational campfire,except within a permanently constructed fire grate in a developed park, campground, private residence, or picnic area.
Fines can be levied against parties who break the fire restriction order.