On July 29, the Escondido Police and Fire Communication Center received a report of multiple trees on fire near a home on Sunset Drive and Ginny Lane. The first arriving Engine Captain reported smoke showing from a distance and upon arrival reported several trees on fire in between residential structures on Ginny Lane. Additionally, crews identified downed energized electrical lines arcing in the driveway of a nearby home and a natural gas leak from a meter that had been damaged by the fire. Fire Crews ensured that all occupants were safely evacuated, extinguished the tree fire, and confirmed that there was no fire extension into the homes. Once the main body of fire was extinguished, crews staged for SDG&E to respond and secure the electrical and gas hazards. There were no injuries, however, the residents of the home on Ginny Way were temporarily displaced.
Last week, Escondido firefighters joined all North County Fire Departments to conduct hands on palm tree rescue training. Occasionally, tree trimmers can become entrapped in palm trees due to the weight of the frond skirt. This is a life-threatening situation due to the danger of asphyxiation and the difficulty in reaching the victim. This type of rescue operation is highly technical and requires practiced knowledge and skills with equipment and other agencies.
