Sheriff's Office: Protecting Stehekin top priority as Pioneer Fire advances

Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison

COURTESY OF CHELAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE

STEHEKIN—The Chelan County Sheriff's Office released a statement assuring residents that protecting the community of Stehekin is the top priority as the Pioneer Fire burns about four miles away.

In a press release on Saturday, Sheriff Mike Morrison addressed misinformation circulating on social media that has led to speculation over firefighting tactics on the wildfire burning on the north shore of Lake Chelan.

"This is unfortunate, because it detracts from our emergency planning efforts," said Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison. "However, we do understand. These are people's lives, businesses and homes, and with any wildfire comes much stress. But I want to be clear that state, federal and local agencies are working tirelessly on this fire and a strategy is in place to protect the community. We are all on the same team, working together for the same results -- protect Stehekin and keep people safe."

Stehekin, from the landing to High Bridge, is currently under a Level 1 fire advisory. Stehekin residents have been briefed that Emergency Management is prepared for a Level 2 (be prepared to evacuate) notice if the incident management team and Emergency Management determine it is necessary. A new Complex Incident Management Team, the fourth team since the fire started in early June, assumes command of the fire on Sunday, July 21.

"This incoming incident command team, Northwest Team 3, includes several local names, like former Chelan County fire chiefs Mike Burnett and Randy Johnson," said Rich Magnussen, Emergency Management specialist. "The team consists of several U.S. Forest Service employees who live in our area, and the incident commander has served many stints fighting wildfires in the Lake Chelan area. We are in great hands, with people who know our area well."

Earlier attempts to stop the fire well south of Stehekin were unsuccessful due to extreme fire behavior and steep terrain. Emergency planners have a strategy in place for firefighters to provide point protection to homes and businesses in Stehekin.

Officials encouraged residents to sign up for emergency alerts, attend community meetings, and stay informed through official channels. The sheriff's office emphasized it is working closely with the incident management team and supports the strategy to keep the community safe.

"We have been beside the Stehekin community from the start of this fire, providing strategy for evacuation planning and input into wildfire management while also speaking with residents," Morrison said. "We will continue to be at the community's side until this fire is put out."