Bernard Fire near Bayview now 75-percent contained

SANDPOINT, Idaho — The Bernard Fire near Bayview has burned 1,375 acres, just over two square miles, as of Friday afternoon.

Currently, the fire is at 75-percent containment.

According to the USDA Forest Service, the fire started in Echo Bay on the south end of Lake Pend Oreille and burned uphill toward Bernard Peak.

Fire crews attempted water drops last week, but wind caused issues for aircraft. Crews have since been able to use multiple helicopters and Fire Bosses to keep the fire from spreading to the east.

While the smoke has been miserable for everyone else, fire officials say it has prevented oxygen and heat from reaching and fueling the fires even more. Crews have started boxing the fire in, pushing it back against cliff faces and other natural barriers.

There are no evacuations associated with the Bernard Fire.

PC: Idaho Panhandle National Forests

Fire officials determined it was human-caused and is now under investigation.