Structure fire in South Lake community: neighbors watched and waited

Late Sunday afternoon a structure fire broke out in the small lakeside community of South Shore Ranch Estates, in South Lake California, as firefighters quickly made their way to keep the situation contained as strong winds were blowing.

Less than a month after the fire across Lake Isabella in Kernville, burned more than 5000 acres after a small fire got away from firefighters and had consumed homes and other structures in a very short period, some residents of the south shore community were keeping a close eye on the fire as there homes were only a grassy field away.

The sky turned crimson as the red smoke rose into the air right at sunset, causing motorists to slow or stop to see the billowing fire.

This time of year the brush is dried and fires can spread quickly. One fireman said the trucks on scene were surrounding the burning barn keeping any embers from potentially setting off a grass fire which could reach surrounding homes.








A water truck could be seen entering the area surrounding
the fire, as fire trucks
came and went to the
local hydrant which
was not close enough
to reach the location of
the barn which was
the only structure
reported to be involved
at the time.

passers-by and residents helped out

by assisting with the

fire hydrant and filling

the trucks.

"We all know we live in a fire area," a good Samaritan said as he handed off the fire hose to be connected up to one of the fire trucks which were rotating in and out to get water on the scene.

Last word was one structure was involved and the fire has been contained. A resident of the area said the fire department was on the scene quickly and she never felt threatened.

But it is fire country and at any time fires can rush through quickly, there are many organizations which offer tips for what to do in case of fire, how to create an emergency plan, and what to do with your animals.