On Wednesday, February 26 at approximately 6:09 p.m., NorthComm dispatched a single engine to the report of a tree on fire near the 2000 block of S. Escondido Bl. in Escondido. The first arriving engine encountered a few large trees on fire in a steep drainage with powerlines nearby.
Additional units were requested and dispatched due to the excessive overgrown vegetation, access, and potential for fire spread to adjacent homes. While the main body of fire was extinguished within minutes, crews had a difficult time ensuring the 60-100 ft palm trees had stopped smoldering. Units remained committed to the incident for approximately 2.5 hours, confirming the area was completely extinguished and overhauled.
In total, four engines, a Battalion Chief and Fire Prevention specialist responded. No civilians or Firefighters were injured during the incident. Escondido Police and Public Works Departments provided additional assistance. The fire is currently under investigation.