Firefighters Save Multiple Homes from Urban Interface Fire

On Sunday, September 24, 2006, approximately one hundred San Jose Firefighters battled an urban interface wildland fire in the east foothills of San Jose. A total of 13 Engine Companies, three Truck Companies, multiple overhead staff personnel and the California Department of Forestry (CDF) coordinated to bring this blaze under control. This fire threatened homes and approached the Alum Rock Park area.

The fire, which was reported just after 3 p.m., was reported to be in the area south of Suncrest Ave. Firefighters reported smoke showing from the station and requested additional resources immediately. Upon arrival Firefighters reported a fast moving grass fire threatening multiple structures. Additional resources were requested to protect the homes and people living in them. A shelter in place order was communicated to all residents. This provided Firefighters with unobstructed roadways allowing an opportunity to strategically place Firefighters with charged fire hoses between the homes and the fire.

CDF simultaneously made precise air drops from fixed wing aircrafts and helicopters. These air drops slowed the fire significantly and allowed hand crews an opportunity to establish a line around the fire.

Fire Companies from surrounding cities including, Central (County), Milpitas, and Santa Clara City Fire Department, staffed San Jose fire stations until units were able to return to service. The incident was declared contained at 1810 hours and under control at 2043 hours. The fire was kept to 30 acres and no homes were damaged.

Submitted by: Captain, Alberto Olmos, Public Information Officer

Photos submitted by: Craig Allyn Rose, Photographer San Jose Fire Department