GEM COUNTY, Idaho — Idaho State Fire Marshal's Office is working with the local firefighters and the BLM to help fight the nearly 160,000 acre Paddock Fire.
The home of a volunteer firefighter in Ola, destroyed overnight by flames of the Paddock Fire. Fortunately, his fellow firefighters were able to wake him, and get him to safety, before he could have been trapped.
Crews are working on the East and Southwest sides of the fire… utilizing bulldozers to continue constructing containment lines.
BLM Idaho Fire says the fire is currently moving South and West.
The fire is 0% contained, as of Friday evening.
“Thank you to all the first responders putting their life on the line to defend the community,” said Anderson.
Former volunteer firefighter Paul Anderson, the owner of Anderson Reserve north of Emmett in Sweet, Idaho, is sharing his appreciation for firefighters by offering free burgers to those keeping the community safe.
“It’s just our way of giving back and saying ‘thank you.’ I know first hand, I know a lot of the firefighters because it’s mostly volunteer up here in Gem County, and they have been [out fighting the fire for] 2-3 days on minimal sleep and minimal food and we just want to say thank you,” said Anderson.
The Paddock Fire was caused by lightning, earlier this week. Ready-Set-Go evacuation orders are in place for portions of Gem, Payette, and Washington counties.
If you’d like to help – there is a firefighter donation drop off station at the Sweet Fire House, or you can bring items like Chapstick, eye drops, baby wipes, and energy drinks to the Gem County Chamber Of Commerce. The latest updates can be found on BLM Idaho Fire Facebook and IdahoNews6.com.
Road closures can make it hard for travelers.
Click herefor any road closures in the area.
