Multiple Agencies Help Extinguish Fire In Enoch

Just before 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 28, the Cedar City Fire Department was dispatched to a reported vegetation fire in the City of Enoch. The fire, which burned approximately 26.7 acres, occurred between Old Highway 91 and Interstate 15 near the two water tanks across from Valley Bible Church. It has been identified as the Tank Fire by local agencies and residents.

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The Cedar City Fire Department responded with a structure engine, two water tenders, four brush engines, and two command vehicles. Additional support came from the Bureau of Land Management with four engines, Forestry Fire State Lands with two engines, and Iron County, which dispatched a dozer, one Type 2-20 person hand crew, and two aircraft. The Valley Bible Church was initially threatened, but quick action by firefighters halted the fire's forward progression, saving all surrounding structures.

Local law enforcement, including the Enoch Police Department, Utah Highway Patrol, and the Iron County Sheriff’s Office, managed traffic control. Interstate 15 southbound was reduced to a single lane, and Old Highway 91 was completely shut down to facilitate firefighting efforts.

“We are fortunate that crews were able to stop this fire quickly,” said Cedar City Fire Chief Mike Phillips via a press release. “With the recent fires in our area and the red flag warnings, the weather is not in our favor.”

Firefighters believe the fire was human-caused, but the investigation is ongoing. Residents are reminded that many areas in Utah, including Iron County, are under Red Flag Warnings. Ensuring that vehicles and equipment such as tires, chainsaws, and lawnmowers are in proper working condition is crucial. Additionally, the use of personal fireworks and illegal open burning should be strictly avoided.

Local authorities emphasize the importance of adhering to fire safety guidelines to prevent further incidents.