Ponds Fire Contained Near Fort Collins

Crews hold west-side wildfire to 8.4 acres as investigation continues

A wildfire that sparked along the west edge of Fort Collins on April 23 is now fully contained, according to Poudre Fire Authority officials, as investigators work to determine its cause.

The Ponds Fire burned 8.4 acres in Maxwell Natural Area after the first 911 call came in at 4:42 p.m. Crews were dispatched within a minute and arrived on scene by 4:50 p.m., quickly escalating the response due to gusty winds and the fire’s proximity to nearby homes.

The Ponds Fire burned 8.4 acres in Maxwell Natural Area (Photo courtesy Poudre Fire Authority)

The Ponds Fire burned 8.4 acres in Maxwell Natural Area (Photo courtesy Poudre Fire Authority)

The Ponds Fire burned 8.4 acres in Maxwell Natural Area (Photo courtesy Poudre Fire Authority)

The Ponds Fire burned 8.4 acres in Maxwell Natural Area (Photo courtesy Poudre Fire Authority)

Firefighters from Poudre Fire Authority and the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office worked together to stop the fire’s spread, using specialized vehicles, hand tools, and coordinated air support. Single-engine air tankers dropped fire retardant to slow the flames, while natural features such as irrigation ditches, trails, and roads helped limit the fire’s spread.

At one point, the fire reached a home’s backyard but was quickly extinguished before causing structural damage. One wildland firefighter sustained burns and was transported for treatment before being released. No other injuries were reported.

Evacuation alerts impacted thousands of registered devices, with both voluntary and mandatory orders issued as a precaution. Most residents were able to return home later that evening.

Investigators from Poudre Fire Authority and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives are continuing to examine the cause of the fire, with findings expected soon.

Officials say this incident reflects an early start to fire season, with fuels already reaching critical dryness levels across Northern Colorado. Crews will remain in the area through the afternoon to monitor conditions and connect with nearby residents.

Community members can learn more about wildfire preparedness and prevention at https://qrco.de/WildfirePrevention and are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts at https://qrco.de/bezAgt.

Staying connected to local updates can make a difference during fast-moving situations like this. The North Forty News Daily Update brings together the latest Northern Colorado news, weather, and alerts each morning in one clear, steady read.

Attribution: Poudre Fire Authority

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