LAKE COUNTY — Lake County Fire Protection District responded to two grass fires on Tuesday. Although the fires resulted in only charred grass, the potential for destruction was high.
The first fire broke out just after 1 p.m. along the east side of Highway 53 between 18th and 40th avenues. According to the report prepared by LCFPD Battalion Chief George Murch, the fire burned down hill at a moderate rate and consumed approximately .75 acres.
“It was fortunate that we got the fire under control quickly because it was really close to the Chapman Tract,” Murch said.
Cause of the fire is undetermined; however, Murch said that it appears to have been started along the side of the highway, possibly by some type of mechanical failure from a passing vehicle. The fire did not appear to be suspicious.
The second fire ignited at approximately 7:06 p.m. in a dry, heavy brush area behind El Grande Inn on Lakeshore Drive. The fire reportedly consumed about a quarter-acre. The blaze had posed a threat to several guest vehicles, a propane tank and a nearby residence.
“We had an engine stationed (at the house) to protect the structure,” Murch said.
According to Murch, severe fire season is just beginning. “We appreciate everybody being extra careful and we can tell that they are; we only had one small grass fire on the Fourth of July. But, we”re facing extreme conditions with limited resources right now.” Murch explained, “Fire season usually starts about now, but we have already consumed the same amount of acreage (statewide) as we did all last year and we still have another three and a half months to go.”
LCFPD would like to remind the public that there are still several fires burning in California, limiting the resources local districts have for suppression. “The situation is severe. We can”t do any control burns or training burns because of the smoke factor, the dryness and limited resources from CalFire,” Murch said. “(CalFire) is stripped down and they are keeping the bare minimum (personnel) here.”
The public can help keep the fire threat down by taking extra care. Murch advises clearing lots and mowing grass only in the early morning hours and always before noon. Keep shovels, water and other tools that might help in an emergency when performing hazardous tasks close at hand. Take the same care when barbecuing as well. Murch further stated that people found to be negligent in the cause of a fire may be held responsible for suppression costs.
Vehicle maintenance and proper use is important, too.
Murch said there was an incident on July 10 involving a truck pulling an oversized trailer load down Glassgow Grade that posed a considerable fire hazard. “Because the load was too heavy, the brakes on the truck over-heated,” he said. “Fire units were cancelled but CHP was called out and grounded the vehicle because it could have caused a fire due to its brake problems.”
Murch said those using recreational vehicles, off road motorcycles and four-wheel drives should also take extra precaution. “Fire dangers are so high that, again, they can be held responsible for suppression costs if they are negligent,” he said.
Contact Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com.
