July 1st – Mutliple Significant Fire Incidents

Contra Costa County Fire Protection District crews managed several significant incidents occurring simultaneously with limited resources throughout communities in their service area.

At 1:15pm a vegetation fire reported on Kirker Pass Road between Concord and Clayton quickly grew requiring a 2nd alarm response for a total of 10 engines and multiple chief officers and other support personnel along with a robust response from Cal Fire of 14 engines, aircraft, dozers, and hand crews. Mutual aid resources from East Bay Regional Parks Fire Department, Moraga-Orinda Fire, San Ramon Valley Fire, and East Contra Costa Fire District responded to assist. The fire eventually grew to almost 500 acres and destroyed two out-buildings before being contained. Firefighters intervened and saved three structures from fire along Kirker Pass Road. There were no injuries reported and fire crews worked into the midnight hours mopping-up hot spots. Kirker Pass Road was closed in both directions until 4am on Tuesday. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

At 3:11pm, while the Kirker Pass fire was still growing and threatening structures, a fast moving grass fire started in Brentwood off Concord Ave. The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District assisted the East Contra Costa Fire District with a response of 7 engines, a safety officer, and Battalion Chief. The fire eventually consumed over 250 acres. Fire District resources were committed until approximately 6:30pm.

At 4:05pm, a vegetation and structure fire was reported at 2201 Smith Lane in Concord. Upon arrival, fire crews found a garage heavily involved in fire with a fence, trees, and surrounding vegetation also on fire threatening other homes and structures. Additional crews were called in to fight the fire and protect the adjacent structures. In all, five engines and one ladder truck responded with three chief officers and brought the fire under control by 4:30pm, however crews were committed to the incident for another two hours until approximately 6:45pm for extensive overhaul and mop-up.

Resources from adjacent fire departments and fire districts were utilized to provide service within the Fire District throughout much of the day. The closure of fire stations in January, 2013 and additional reductions made in 2011 and 2012 have limited the amount of resources available throughout the Fire District to mitigate and control multiple routine incidents, significant fire incidents, and multiple significant fire incidents as was experienced on Monday.

The Fire District reminds everyone to take extra precautions to remain fire safe during this summer fire season. Create a defensible space by removing dry grass and flammable vegetation at least 100’ from your home, from around decks, and from under the eaves of your home. Trim up trees from around the side of your home and remove any tree litter and leaves from rain gutters and roofs. And most importantly, install smoke alarms in your home – in every bedroom and on at least each level of your home. Test them monthly and change the batteries twice each year!

With the 4th of July in less than two days, we remind everyone that all fireworks are illegal in Contra Costa County!!! Fireworks, even those carrying the “safe and sane” label are dangerous and can cause significant injury and property damage.

For more fire safety tips and information on defensible space, visit www.cccfpd.org

Media Contact: Lewis Broschard, Fire Marshal
925-941-3520

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