SANDPOINT — Firefighters have made swift and significant gains on the Sunset Fire in recent days, bringing containment to 32% and completing a direct handline around the fire's perimeter.

The fire, first reported Aug. 13, has burned 3,230 acres. There are 670 personnel assigned to the fire.

And, as importantly, "Go" evacuation orders were lifted and residents in southern Bonner County were told they could now go home. Residents in the Talache area were downgraded to "Set" status. “Go” status is the final stage of the Ready-Set-Go evacuation protocol. “Ready” means residents should have an evacuation plan. “Set” means they should begin implementing that plan.

As residents return to their homes, Bonner County Sheriff Daryl Wheeler said the forest remains closed to the public and that burn

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