“Aggressive” Firefighting Efforts – Highland Lakes Fire Attack

DIVIDE, Colo. — The Teller County Sheriff says Tuesday will be an aggressive fight to bring the Highland Lakes Fire under control due to high fire danger. Other agencies from across the state plan to join in fighting the fire.

This includes airplanes. Starting Tuesday morning, aerial drops will be held to try and get the upper hand first. On such fire-dangerous days as Tuesday, you can’t waste time.

The sheriff’s office said Tuesday morning that thanks to the quick response of first responders and firefighters from across the state, no new structures were damaged Tuesday after the home was lost Monday.

Coverage Colorado

One home lost, 700 evacuated as Highland Lakes fire burns north of Divide

Teller County Sheriff Jason Marksell says, “We expect the fire danger to be very high, so you’re going to see a lot of airdrops, you’re going to see helicopters, you’re going to see everybody throwing everything we can at this thing.”

Also starting Tuesday, the third stage of the fire ban also operate. This means no fire, including cooking or smoking outside.

The Colorado Springs Fire Department says they were called to help put out the fire on Tuesday. CSFD sent out a brush truck and a strike team leader and crews arrived at approximately 6 a.m. Tuesday.

The Teller County Sheriff says the fire was caused by negligence and criminal charges are pending, but no further details had been released as of Tuesday morning.

We’ll stay here and continue to bring you updates as we get them.

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