County Activates Emergency Operations Center and Call Center for Rafael Fire

FLAGSTAFF — Coconino County Emergency Management (CCEM) has activated an Emergency Operations Center in response to the Rafael Fire. A Call Center has also been set up to answer questions. Residents may call 928.679.8647 or email rafaelfire@coconino.az.gov

The Rafael Fire was discovered on June 18, 2021, the result of passing predominantly dry thunderstorms and has continued to increase due to low humidity and wind. All areas south of 1-40, west of I-17, including University Heights, Kachina Village, Forest Highlands, Pine Dell, Woody Mountain Road, as well as South Garland Prairie, Pine Aire Estates and residents in between are now in SET status (pre-evacuation).

Coconino County Emergency Management is working with Law Enforcement agencies, the Arizona Department of Transportation, the National Forests, utility companies and other community partners to ensure a coordinated response for any adverse impact the Rafael Fire may have on residents.

In the event of an emergency, it is unlikely anyone will come to your door to notify you. Residents of Coconino County should sign-up now for emergency notifications at coconino.az.gov/ready. People should call 911 during an emergency.

During the Tuesday, June 22 Board of Supervisors meeting, there will be a Fire update at 1 p.m. You can join the zoom webinar by clicking on this link: https://zoom.us/j/92870110865 Or Telephone: Dial or 877 853 5247 (Toll Free), Webinar ID: 928 7011 0865.

Coconino County is always in a stage of “Ready” in the “Ready, Set, Go” system. This means residents should have an emergency kit with enough food, water, and necessary supplies for at least 72 hours, as well as the six P’s; people, pets and supplies, prescriptions, papers, personal needs and priceless items. Take your pets with you if you must evacuate and listen to Emergency Notifications. Pets should wear a collar or harness, as well as an identification tag, and dogs specifically must wear a license and rabies tags. For detailed information on Ready, Set, Go, visit https://coconino.az.gov/1908/Ready—Set—Go

You should have the following to be in a stage of “Ready”:

  • Three days of non-perishable food and water (one gallon per day per family member)
  • First aid kit and extra supply of medication
  • Personal hygiene supplies, extra clothing, footwear, gloves, blankets, sleeping bags
  • Extra food for pets and livestock
  • Flashlight, extra batteries and a battery-operated radio
  • Alternate heat source (kerosene, wood, etc.)
  • An emergency plan for the entire family
  • Vehicle preparedness
  • Carry an emergency kit consisting of tire chains, blankets, tow strap, jumper cables, flashlight,
  • water, first aid kit, ice scraper, extra clothing, and appropriate tools
  • Keep the gas tank at least half full
  • When traveling, let someone know your intended route and expected time of arrival
  • Allow extra time for travel and drive accordingly
  • Extra blanket and food
  • Cell phone and charger