Flames Fanned By Gusty Winds

Reports of smoke coming from the rear of a residential home were recently called into the San Bernardino County Communications Center. The first on-scene engine reported heavy smoke and fire coming from a fully-involved motorhome that was spreading to adjacent homes and vegetation. Firefighters were not only battling the flames but also the 30 mph winds that were quickly spreading the fire. Reports of palm trees and the roof of a home on fire were reported up to 3 blocks away from the origin of the incident, caused by flying embers carried by these winds. The incident commander quickly ordered a total of 20 fire engines to assist. With the current Red Flag warning in effect, the San Bernardino County Fire Department had increased its staffing levels in anticipation of such an event. This increased staffing played a big part in getting this fire under control and preventing any further fire spread. Assistance was also received from the San Bernardino City Fire Department, Colton Fire Department and Rialto Fire Department. Due to the extensive mop-up and overhaul that was required to assure full extinguishment, the San Bernardino County Fire Glen Helen 1 and Fire Crew 40 were also assigned to the incident. Crews were on scene for approximately five hours. The cause of the fire was deemed to be faulty electrical wiring. San Bernardino Avenue was closed for several hours between Cedar and Larch avenues. There were no reported injuries to firefighters. Two civilians had medical complaints minor in nature and both were treated and released at the scene. The total loss of the incident is estimated to be $70,000.