Large “compost reception area” catches fire near Hollister
HOLLISTER, Calif. (KION) Strong winds kicked up flames in a remote part of Hollister, Friday.
Around 6 a.m., residents off the 5500 Block of Frazier Lake Road woke up to a fire just feet from their doorsteps. "When fire crews got on scene they evacuated personnel. It was a total of five homes and numerous heads of cattle, horses and goats," said Hollister Fire Chief, Bob Martin Del Campo.
15 residents were evacuated as crews battled the blaze. Hollister Animal Control stepped in to rescue a number of goats and pigs. "All of the animals we picked up did not show any sign of injury or illness. There were no issues with smoke inhalation that we can see," said Kara Ells with Hollister Animal Control.
The fire burns at the site of a compost dump. Old vehicles, tires and various metal parts are now torched. Already, three structures have been destroyed. Protecting the ones that still stand is top priority.
"What we're doing here is multiple sorts of suppression. We have structures that we're protecting, wildland that we're protecting and we're trying to do some suppression operations in the fire itself," said Del Campo.
Because of gusty winds, Del Campo said risk for flying embers is high. This has the potential to spread the blaze, so crews are on high alert and extinguishing anything they see as soon as they can.
"If there's any spotting or smokers that you see in this vicinity, you need to call 911. We can go out there and see if we have any new start," said Del Campo.
