Cranston Fire 82% contained
The San Bernardino U.S. National Forest Service hosted a community meeting to give residents a better sense of how they are progressing in containing the Cranston Fire.
As of 7:30 p.m. Monday, the Cranston Fire has burned 13, 139 acres and is 82% contained. Three firefighters have been injured battling the fire and 12 structures have been destroyed while five other structures have been damaged.
Residents thanked firefighters for their dedication in fighting the fire during a standing ovation at the community meeting.
“They did their job and we’re all here, and we’re going to start our lives again and get back on track,” said Phyllis Brown, a long time resident of Idyllwild.
Hundreds packed the Idyllwild gymnasium to discuss steps in moving forward. Emergency personnel explained procedures in keeping homes safe from dangerous debris left behind as a result of the fire.
“Materials from the impacted homes have been removed from the environmental health department,” said one speaker.
There was also a message announced warning people to throw out hazardous foods that were left behind.
“You left and your power was off, and you got home and it was back on. So that means all the stuff in your freezer was thawed out and refrozen before you got back. My boss just told you that the transfer station would be open for 90 days, use it,” said Jerry Hagen, one of the first responders to speak at the meeting.
Cal trans raised concerns over the danger of potential rainfall.
“This whole mountain is going to let lose with debris, rocks, logs and anything else it’ll bring with it,” said Chief Public Information Officer for Cal Trans District 8.
Crews are already working to prevent serious damage on roadways.
Mandatory evacuations remain in place for the areas of Mountain Center, Hurkey Creek, San Jacinto Mountain State Park, and Garner Valley north of Morris Ranch Road.
Authorities have allowed residents in the communities of Pine Cove, Fern Valley, Cedar Glen, and portions of Idyllwild outside of the fire perimeter. The portions of Garner Valley south of Morris Ranch Road were repopulated Saturday.
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