Late in the evening of April 22, 2024, San Bernardino County Fire units were dispatched to a reported residential structure fire in the 27000 block of Highway 189 in the community of Blue Jay. 911 callers stated a house and trees on fire.

#SBCoFD firefighters arrived on-scene to find a two-story home well involved in fire with a threat to adjacent vegetation. Arriving crews deployed hose-lines to suppress the large fire and protect nearby exposures. Due to the level of involvement firefighters operated from a defensive posture. While firefighters were attacking the fire, one resident was located outside with minor burns. An on-scene paramedic ambulance provided treatment to one adult and transported to a local hospital. 

Despite the heavy fire upon arrival, steep terrain and multiple exposures, crews were able to limit the fire to the building of origin and a small portion of vegetation. The fire was knocked down in 35 minutes. Once knocked down, crews worked on overhaul operations and a fire investigation. The fire remains under investigation by SBCoFD Investigators. 

San Bernardino County Fire responded with four Engines, a Medic Ambulance, Battalion Chief and two Fire Investigators. CALFIRE also responded with an Engine due to the wildland threat. 

Creating Your Home Fire Escape Plan

  • Draw your home floor plan using a home escape plan template.
  • Label all the rooms and identify the doors and windows.  
  • Plan 2 escape routes from every room.
  • Provide alternatives for anyone with a disability.
  • Agree on a meeting place where everyone will gather after you have escaped.
  • Considering buying an Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL)-approved collapsible ladder to escape from upper story windows.
  • Practice Your Home Fire Escape Plan
  • Review your escape plan with everyone that stays in the house, including children.
  • Sound the smoke alarm.
  • Practice crawling low beneath the smoke.
  • Remember to check doors for heat with your hand; if a door is hot, do not open it.
  • Close the doors as you leave.
  • Practice with a collapsible ladder, if you have one.
  • Go directly to your meeting place; do not stop to find your pets or valuables.
  • Remember to GET OUT FIRST, then call 9-1-1 for help.
  • Practice your plan at least twice a year.

If You Live in an Apartment Building

  • Learn and practice your building’s evacuation plan.
  • Know primary and secondary exits.
  • If you hear the fire alarm, leave immediately.
  • Use the stairs.
  • NEVER use elevators during a fire.

For more safety tips on how to protect your home and its occupants, visit sbcfire.org/homesafety.

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