The Sears Fire, which burned through nearly 14,500 acres over the course of a week, was 60% contained Friday, according to officials with the Tonto National Forest. 

The blaze, which was sparked last Friday near Forest Service Road and Sears Kay Ranch, burned a total of four homes and 10 buildings, according to preliminary findings from officials. Fire containment has increased by 15% since Wednesday.

An area closure will remain in effect for the time being to protect the public and to allow firefighters tp patrol, monitor and “mop up” hotspots along the fire perimeter, according to the release. 

Seven Springs and Horseshoe Lake roads remain closed. Barlett Lake, the marina and Barlett Damn Road have since reopened.

In addition, the closure limits access to segments of Maricopa Trail from Spur Cross to Granite Mountain on the Bronco Trail. 

Fire crews have monitored areas around critical infrastructure on Humboldt Lookout and are also monitoring structures in the Camp Creek recreation residences, the release said. 

Approximately 100 response personnel, including engines, hand crews, water tenders and helicopters were assigned to the incident Friday. 

Road grading operations were completed along Horseshoe Road on Friday to repair damage caused by firefighting vehicles responding to the fire. Crews will do the same to Seven Springs Roads starting Saturday. 

The closure will remain in effect until further notice, as will Stage 1 Fire Restrictions currently in effect across Tonto National Forest. 

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