Fire contained quickly thanks to Helitack team

The Louviers fire (also known as the Airport Fire) was 100% contained within three days, according to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) and the Office of Emergency Management. Thanks to efforts of all the fire crews, support personnel and agencies who worked around the clock to protect lives and property. Mild weather conditions also helped support containment efforts.

On Sunday, July 13, South Metro Fire Rescue (SMFR) received multiple reports of spot fires ranging from Chatfield to Louviers. Crews from Douglas County’s Helitack team and helicopter responses were crucial to containment. Other crews that were instrumental were SMFR, West Metro Fire Rescue, Castle Rock Fire and Rescue, West Douglas County Fire Protection District, Jackson 105 Fire and Franktown Fire Protection District. No injuries to residents or fire crews have been reported, and no structural damage is known to have occurred. According to DCSO, the fire burned 130 acres and was caused by “activity associated with a passing train.”

Earlier this year, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners invested $1.8 million to ensure the helicopter and team were available to the county throughout the year. “The chopper was in the air within 10 minutes of the first report of fire,” said Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly. “Over the course of the day, the helicopter completed 88 water drops, dropping a total of 26,400 gallons of water on the fire.” Douglas County is the only county in Colorado with its own helicopter.

Douglas County residents are encouraged to take action to keep their property safe from wildfire. To this end, Douglas County has reinstated its Wildfire Mitigation Cost-Share Program (WMCP).

WMCP will provide a 50% financial match to homeowners, up to $10,000, to help them provide defensible spaces, reduce hazards and increase community safety and resilience to wildfires. To apply for WMCP or for more information, visit douglas.co.us and search “wildfire mitigation cost-share program.” The application deadline is August 14.