4 FIREFIGHTERS Injured in Blaze

Mayday! Fire Fighter DOWN!! 

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July 12, 2020__ Sunday evening, at 9:55 P.M., San Bernardino County FIRE Department Crews were dispatched to a reported structure fire in the 14400 block of Azalea in the community of Phelan.

First arriving crews found a large, single-story home well involved in fire with multiple exposures to adjacent structures on the property. Fire Fighters initiated a defensive fire attack in an attempt to knock down the fire and protect a large RV garage which was imminently threatened.  

The Crews were transitioning the fire from a defensive to offensive strategy from an exterior patio when a portion of the roof collapsed, causing the patio and a portion of the wall to come down. The collapse briefly trapped 4 firefighters. A “Mayday! Firefighter Down” message was broadcast.

Thankfully, the Fire Fighters quickly self-rescued or were assisted from under the patio. The firefighters were quickly assessed and treated by an awaiting SBCoFD Medic Ambulance. Two of the injured were treated on-scene for minor injuries but weren’t transported. The other two firefighters sustained moderate injuries and were transported to an area trauma center for treatment. They were released Monday morning to recover at home.  

While fighting the fire, the crew found what appeared to a large marijuana grow inside the home and garage. Due to the large volume of fire, collapse and unknown hazards crews switched to a defensive posture. The fire was ultimately knocked down in approximately 1 hour. Damage to the home and garage were extensive. No immediate fire hydrants were in the area, making consistent water flow a challenge. A water shuttle operation was used to keep water flowing.

Due to the structural integrity of the home being compromised and hazards inside, a SBCoFD Dozer was utilized for mop-up operations.