’24 Fire’ containment reaches 86% in Fremont County

Fort Carson released the following statement on March 27:

“As of 8 a.m., the 24 Fire Incident Command continues to make progress containing the fire by increasing containment to 86%. Fire crews continue to patrol and monitor the control lines. In addition, the clean-up efforts enabled the opening of Highway 115 to the public Thursday afternoon.

The ‘READY’ pre-evacuation status for residents within the two-mile radius along County Road F45 and Highway 115 is no longer in effect.

A reminder that travelers should proceed with caution while using Highway 115 to avoid any distracted driving while emergency services monitor containment lines. Please do not stop along the highway and remain vigilant for wildlife. Smoke will still be visible from the road but does not require notification to emergency services.”

FREMONT COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) -- Fort Carson officials confirmed on March 27 that the "24 Fire" burning off Highway 115 in Fremont County stands at approximately 7,385 acres, while the containment has increased to 86%.

Fort Carson released the following statement on March 26:

“As of 8 a.m., the 24 Fire Incident Command has made significant progress by increasing containment to 61%. This is the result of the firefighters’ efforts to strengthen control lines to maintain safe barriers.

Today crews will be focusing efforts on mop up and monitoring, especially along Highway 115. Firefighters and apparatus will be visible along all control lines. There will still be visible smoke due to burning within the interior of the contained areas which is being facilitated as planned.  Thorough assessments are being conducted with emergency service agencies with the public in mind to prepare the reopening of Highway 115.

More information regarding the opening of Highway 115 will be shared as soon as a decision has been made.”

Fire crews said the initial cause of the fire was a vehicle malfunction on Highway 115. Officials say a vehicle pulled over while driving on the highway, and that was the spark point.

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