LAKEPORT — A wildland fire at Cow Mountain Recreation Area required the assistance of a helicopter and air tankers just before noon Thursday.
Flames consumed roughly a quarter of an acre of heavy brush before fire personnel were able to surround the blaze with fire retardant and bring the fire under control, CAL FIRE Battalion Chief Greg Bertelli said.
One helicopter made several trips to Clear Lake and dropped water on the active blaze. The fire was called contained at 12:45 p.m., roughly 50 minutes after it was reported.
Personnel from CAL FIRE, Lakeport Fire Protection District and Kelseyville Fire Protection District combined efforts to fight the flames. Roughly 50 firefighters responded to the scene. One helicopter and three air tankers were used.
Fire personnel were expected to stay in the area roughly three more hours for mop-up, Bertelli said. Special attention will be put on the area because of windy conditions until Saturday, when rainy conditions are expected.
This time of year is a concern, Bertelli said. Though there was no sign that this fire was caused by hunters or other visitors, Bertelli said he encourages hunters and other people who frequent the wilderness to pay special attention to camp fires and be extra careful with hunting equipment.
No property damage or injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Isaac Brambila is an associate editor for Lake County Publishing. Reach him at 263-5636 ext. 37 or at ibrambila@record-bee.com.
