FAST-growing fire threatens 170 homes near Wyoming resort town

Monday, July 23rd 2001, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) _ A fire that began in a recreation area burned quickly through 150 acres of dry, dense vegetation, forcing the evacuation of campers and threatening scores of homes nearby.

The fire was first reported Sunday at a half-acre, about six miles southwest of Jackson. An unknown number of campers were evacuated, and the fire spread toward several subdivisions containing about 170 homes.

Residents ''have been notified to prepare for an evacuation call,'' said Jay Anderson, spokesman for the Bridger-Teton National Forest.

The resort town of Jackson was not threatened; all roads and businesses remained open.

Firefighters were aided by three helicopters and two tanker planes making water drops. The fire's cause was not immediately known.