Rattlesnake fire 100 percent contained

A human-caused fire that burned 2,773 acres 45 miles southeast of Keller is 100 percent contained, a July 17 press release from the Colville Confederated Tribes Department of Natural Resources stated.

The Rattlesnake Fire, which started on July 12, was within the Hellgate Game Reserve on the Colville Indian Reservation, and west of the Lincoln boat launch near Creston.

Named after Rattlesnake Canyon, firefighters did have to watch out for the venomous snakes.

A crew of about 100 people, down from 200, will remain with the fire to quell hot spots and keep an eye on the winds.

Up to nine engines, two dozers, nine water tenders, and aviation “as needed” were used on the fire.

The Tribal Burned Area Emergency Response team will assess damage to cultural and natural resources.

“The public is urged to take precautions as fire danger remains high,” the press release said.