News Release

Night Operations Help Increase Containment on Sandy Fire

Firefighter conducts nighttime burnout operations

Chris Richards

News Release Date: May 9, 2023

Contact: Riki Hoopes, 786-886-9342

OCHOPEE, FL – As fire managers continue to contend with dry conditions, crews are taking advantage of the favorable nighttime weather conditions to conduct suppression burn out operations on the Sandy Wildfire. 

Operations went late last night and are expected to continue tonight as crews pull fire south, eliminating unburned fuel between the control lines and the main fire. Burning at night allows firefighters to limit the amount of heat on the line, and decreases the risk of spot fires over the line. Burn out operations are conducted with fire suppression buggies that can cool the fire edge with water as needed.

Tomorrow, crews will hold and improve current control lines and continue to scout and prep lines moving south on both the east and west flank of the fire. Air and ground resources will utilize direct and indirect attack methods to slow fire spread.

The Sandy Wildfire is currently 10,551 acres and 15% contained.

Smoke impacts along US41 continue to remain a high priority and travelers should use caution when driving in the area.

Please note: Closures remain in effect west of 11 Mile Road, north of US41, east of Monument Trail, and south of Mud Lake, Little Deer, Oasis Trail and Lost Dog, including the Florida Trail from Oasis Visitor Center to I75 (MM 63). This both ensures the safety of the public and allows firefighters to work without impediment.

Phase One of the Sandy Wildfire Evacuation Plan remains in effect. Fire managers continue to monitor fire behavior and residents will be notified by fire managers if the evacuation phase is upgraded.

• Phase One: Residents within evacuation zone are notified of potential fire impacts and advised to create defensible space around home if possible.
• Phase Two: Residents within evacuation zone should be packed and ready to evacuate. Residents with preexisting health conditions will be encouraged to leave at this time.
• Phase Three: Residents will be advised to leave as fire threat is imminent.