This is the the SoCal Steemit Fire Report. The main goal is to provide information about the numerous fires during fire season. Additionally, our mission is to report any natural disasters and provide a hub for supporting any steemian displaced by a natural disaster in Southern California.
The past few days have been active in the California wildfire news. Sadly, more lives have been lost in the Carr Fire and as of today over 115,000 acres have been burned and 1500 buildings lost. Currently its containment is at 35%. The Ferguson Fire has also claimed lives and has burned over 100 square miles in the three weeks firefighters have been battling it. Containment is at 39%. Throughout Mendocino and Lassen county are several smaller fires with less containment so please keep an eye out on evacuation orders for your county!
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of the lives lost in the Carr and Ferguson Fires.
Closer to home in San Diego / Riverside / San Bernardino counties we've got the following active fires:
Cranston Fire - located in Riverside County, 13,000 acres burned/89% contained.
Valley Fire - located in San Bernardino, 13,000 acres burned/29% contained.
I want to take the time to remind us all that many wildfires can sometimes be avoided. Reports are saying that both the Carr and Ferguson fires were ignited by mechanical car failure and an errant spark from a towed vehicle. It may seem trivial, but it only takes a minute to check that all your belts, tie downs, trailer hitches etc are in proper working order - no dangling chains or metal that might cause a spark! And as camping season is upon us, don't forget to double check the tires on your towed boats, motor homes and cars. You may not notice a flat, but running on a rim can cause major sparks which can turn into a devastating wild fire.
We can't send out enough thanks and appreciation to the first responders keeping us safe throughout fire season and beyond. Guys - don't ignore those evacuation orders! They're put in place not just for us, but for those facing the fire in battle. Make sure to have your go-bags ready - how much you pack is up to you, but do have your important documents, ID and some cash on hand at the very minimum!
What do you have in your go-bag? Comment below - Next Wednesday's Fire Report will include some tips and packing check lists based on your input!
