- SEPTEMBER 18, 2020 PM Update: “Bobcat Fire Update; Over 12,00 Acres Burned Today“
Today, September 18, 2020, as of 9:30 am, an evacuation warning remains in effect for the areas in and around Wrightwood and Pinon Hills due to the spread of the Bobcat Fire. The evacuation area has changed from what we reported in yesterday’s article “Bobcat Fire Evacuation Warning Issued For Wrightwood & Pinon Hills.” A map can be found HERE. The fire has grown to approximately 60,000 acres and is now 15% contained. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Currently, there is 1300 personnel assigned to the fire with 140 engines, 22 hand crews, 5 helicopters, 8 dozers, and 4 water tenders.
On the east side of the fire, the side nearest Wrightwood and Pinon Hills, crews will continue to patrol, look for and extinguish any spot fires while looking for places to “establish direct control lines to slow the spread of the fire.” However, the primary focus of today’s operations will focus on any threats to the communities on the north end of the fire. Air and ground crews will be working on structure protection and stopping the forward movement of the fire. Crews will also continue to hold and improve containment lines around Mt. Wilson.
An evacuation warning is different than an evacuation order. It is always important to follow the instructions of the local agency officials. Wildfires are unpredictable and things could happen or change quickly.
If a warning is issued, residents within the warning area should immediately prepare for evacuation by packing necessary items and preparing family members, pets, and vehicles for a potential departure. Those with mobility problems or medical issues should be moved and livestock or large animals should be moved to a safe place. Anyone who feels uncomfortable or sees active fire behavior should evacuate. Use common sense. The Phelan Pinon Hills CSD has announced that the 5-acre lot directly north of their offices and park (next to Napa Auto Parts on Sheep Creek Road in Phelan) is available for trailered animals and water will be available for those animals.
If an evacuation order is issued, residents within the evacuation area should leave within the specified time period by the pre-designated routes. Take family, pets, and necessary items including medications and important papers and evacuate immediately. It is also a good idea to check with the local Red Cross to find out where evacuation shelters are located. It is also a good idea to check in with them to let them know where you will be in case other family members are trying to locate you.
When packing for an evacuation remember the 6-Ps:
- Plan for persons in your family, including a meeting place.
- Personal items–pack personal items including toiletries, food, and water for 2-3 days and special personal possessions.
- Prescriptions–Pack prescriptions and make sure you have your full, current supply packed.
- Photographs–pack photographs and other mementos that cannot be replaced.
- Pets–have a plan in place and pets secured so frightened pets don’t escape fenced yards or kennels.
- Papers–pack all important papers including reference phone numbers, account numbers, etc.
To aid in wildfire preparation and safety, visit the Calfire “Wildfire is coming… Are you Ready?” website and view these three guides: 1) Ready? 2) Set? 3) Go? and in Spanish: 1) Esta Preparado? 2) Esta Listo? 3) Esta Listo Para Irse YA! The County of San Bernardino also has a guide available HERE.
