The Shake Fire: A Kearny Resident’s Close Call
Living in a small town like Kearny, Arizona, has its perks, but it also comes with its challenges. For resident Mike Looney, one of those challenges became all too real when the Shake Fire threatened to engulf his home. Watching flames inch closer and closer, Looney recounts the fear and uncertainty he felt as the fire got within feet of his property.
“It could have been a major disaster,” Looney said, reflecting on the harrowing experience.
Fortunately, due to the efforts of the dedicated fire crews, the 110-acre Shake Fire is now 50% contained. The forward progress of the fire has been halted, and crews are diligently monitoring any remaining hotspots.
Looney credits his recent yard maintenance for saving his home from destruction. By clearing out weeds and creating a buffer zone behind his backyard, he was able to prevent the flames from reaching his property.
“If I hadn’t cleaned that out, I would have lost a lot,” Looney explained, grateful for the foresight that potentially saved his home.
As the fire came dangerously close to homes in Kearny, aerial drops of pink fire retardant near Ray High School marked the battle against the flames. Looney, a five-year resident of Kearny, expressed his deep gratitude for the 200 fire personnel who worked tirelessly to protect their community.
“Eternally grateful for that. If it hadn’t been for the planes, I think they would have never got it stopped,” Looney shared, emphasizing the crucial role of air support in containing the fire.
While the mandatory evacuations have been lifted by the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, Kearny remains on READY status as a precautionary measure. As Arizona faces early widespread fire activity this season, residents in wildfire-prone areas are urged to prepare a wildfire go-kit in case of future evacuations.
Wildfire Go-Kit:
It is crucial for residents to have an emergency supply kit ready to grab in case of evacuations. The National Fire Protection Association recommends storing essential items such as three gallons of water per person, a three-day supply of food, first-aid supplies, medications, important documents, and other necessities in a waterproof, portable container.
Additional items to consider include a sleeping bag, radio, dust mask, matches, change of clothing, and signal flare. For a comprehensive checklist of supplies, visit the NFPA website here.
In the event of a wildfire or other natural disaster, affected individuals in Arizona can seek assistance from the American Red Cross by calling 1-800-842-7349.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and stay vigilant during this wildfire season.
