KCSO: Time is now to evacuate or face citation and possible arrest

Klamath County Emergency Manager, Brandon Fowler speaks to the public at the Bootleg Fire community meeting, July 9, 2020. (Image: Brian Gailey, Klamath Falls News.)

The following is a press release from the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office.

Below is a press release received from the Klamath County Emergency Manager, Brandon Fowler, pleading individuals to evacuate and not re-enter the evacuation zones of the Bootleg Fire burning north of Beatty, Oregon.

As we continue to support evacuations for the Bootleg Fire in eastern Klamath County, the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office has begun to issue citations and will make arrests if necessary to keep people out of the level 3 evacuation areas. We have advised people to evacuate over the last several days. Some have not listened to those warnings and continue to travel within the restricted area. This violates the closure restrictions and interferes with firefighting and lifesaving efforts.

We advise that if you are in a Level 3 Evacuation Area PLEASE EVACUATE IMMEDIATELY. There is a VERY high probability that we may not be able to get to you with additional warnings.

Unnecessary traffic in the area east of Sprague River Rd is hampering fire response and security. If you do not belong in the area stay out!

Brandon Fowler, Klamath County Emergency Manager