US Forest Service Firefighters Spot Vegetation Fire Along Freeway

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US Forest Firefighters traveling along Interstate 15 today spotted a vegetation fire along the northbound side of the freeway just north of the Kenwood exit shortly after 1pm on August 22, 2011.    The fire did force closure of Interstate 15 in both directions for a brief period and a closure of several northbound lanes into the evening.  

The US Forest Service dispatched a full wildland fire response which included fire engines, fire crews, helicopters and airtankers.  Firefighters from San Bernardino County Fire, Cal Fire and surrounding agencies, sent firefighters to assist, while the California Highway Patrol, San Bernardino County Sheriff's, and Caltrans handled the highway closure.  

The fire burnt in a northeast direction along the freeway eventually catching a power pole on fire, which surged and started a small 3-4 acre fire along Old Cajon Blvd, south of the Cleghorn exit.   (Firefighters quickly knocked down this fire)  

The fire spread rapidly up a drainage towards the Mathews Ranch, located east of Interstate 15, destroying one home, two shipping containers and three small outbuildings.  Firefighters were able to prevent the fire from damaging the two remaining homes and numerous outbuildings at the ranch.  The two residents home at the time chose not to evacuate.  

During the height of the battle, over 600 firefighters consisting of fire engines, hand crews, dozers, and water tenders fought the fire on the ground and were supported by six helicopters and six airtankers.  

One US Forest Service firefighter suffered a knee injury and was transported to a local hospital.  One of the residents at Matthews Ranch became ill during the fire, and firefighters transported the resident to a local hospital as a precautionary measure.  

Fire officials are hopeful that they will be able to fully contain the fire tomorrow evening if conditions remain favorable.   

Fire investigators are continuing their efforts to determine what started the fire.



Author:San Bernardino National Forest Press Release