Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services Sees Increase in Fire Activity

Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services has seen an increase in fire activity recently. Over the last 24 hours there have been two significant fire incidents in the jurisdiction. With fire season at its peak and resources being utilized statewide, it is vital for our community to be fire safe.

On 9/9/24 at 10:31 p.m. units responded for a structure fire in the 6800 block of Morro Road at a four-unit residence where the fire began in the front yard. The fire started near a fence and quickly spread into the structure destroying two of the four units. Four residents were displaced due to this fire.

The second incident was reported at 2:34 p.m. on 9/10/24 as a debris fire in a backyard in the 4300 block of Lobos Ave. Upon arrival, units found an eighth of an acre of vegetation and several fences on fire. It was quickly contained with no structures being damaged. The cause of the fire was due to an unattended BBQ near the dead vegetation.

It is imperative that our community remains aware that the vegetation in our area is very dry and susceptible to ignition. Without rain in months accompanied by the persistent heat waves, everyone needs to be cautious of their activities and work. We are currently in a cooling trend. However, this does not improve the fuel conditions enough to prevent fires. We want to remind our community that any activity that could cause a spark or ignition needs to take place before 10:00 a.m. and that all backyard burning is suspended for the season. With the increase in fire incidents, the department remains ready with increased fire season staffing.

No injuries have been reported with any recent fire related incidents.