The largest fire burning in Arizona right not has scorched more than 15,200 acres. The Lizard Fire is now 70% contained.
Minimal fire activity was detected on Wednesday as crews worked in the area north of Cochise Stronghold Canyon.
With one way in and one way out, fire crews needed to work fast as the Lizard fire moved quickly through parts of Dragoon Mountains in the Coronado National Forest.
Dean Steward, Structure protection group supervisor says the area of Cochise Stronghold was evacuated last Friday. "The fire was threatening to come down over the hill into the canyon."
20-year resident, Terrel Miedaner said he left his home last Friday kicking and screaming. Miedaner says, "I whined the entire time but I left."
Fire crews working diligently with other residents who refused to leave. Crews places water tanks at the entrance of each home in the area to protect them from catching fire.
They placed about 15 water tanks (pumpkins) throughout the road in order to "pump and go."
"Our plan was to have everything in place," says Steward. Adding, "When the fire chases us out we can just turn all the pumps on and let the fire front come through then come back and do mop ups."
The idea is to have the water tanks soak the area grounds and protect homes.
