Multiple agencies responded to a wildland fire around 1:30 p.m. Thursday June 7. The blaze charred a hillside on San Joaquin Drive in Clearlake Park and burned up to the ridge running parallel to Sulphur Bank Drive.
Lake County Fire Protection District (LCFPD) responded with several engines as well as its water tender and dozer. CalFire air units rendered support, including one helicopter and two surveillance planes. CalFire hand crews also responded.
Fire suppression efforts included an aerial attack. The CalFire helicopter crew made several withdraws from Clear Lake in the Clearlake Park/Gooseneck area. The helicopter was observed taking water from three different locations as boaters stood by watching. One boater seemed to have wanted a closer look and positioned the boat near the pick-up site each time the helicopter moved to a different spot.
Boaters are reminded that the basic laws regarding interference with emergency responders apply to them the same as they apply to vehicle motorists.
“People can be arrested under Penal Code No. 148 (interfering with a peace officer, emergency responder, etc.), but it”s really just a matter of common courtesy,” said CalFire Battalion Chief Eric Hoffman. “When a pilot finds a spot he feels comfortable with, people should stay clear of the area.”
Hoffman continued, “It”s also a matter of safety. Once in a while they have to drop a bucket and they don”t want to drop it on anybody.”
LCFPD Battalion Chief Willie Sapeta reported that the fire burned approximately five acres and no structures were lost as a result. Containment was estimated at about one-half hour with mop-up completed in about 2 ? hours.
Cause of the fire is still under investigation; however, its origin has been determined. “We have found the origin but the cause is still undetermined,” Sapeta said. “It may have been caused by something like an exhaust leak or maybe a cigarette.
“Fire season is upon us,” Sapeta continued. “Motorists should make sure their vehicles are tuned and don”t throw cigarettes out the window.”
Contact Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com.
