Hazard Became Inferno : McColl Warned Residents of Risk

Just two weeks ago, San Diego Councilwoman Gloria McColl was walking the streets of her district, warning people to take precautions against the fire hazards of hot, dry weather, overgrown foliage and deep canyons.

Sunday, as a fire blazed out of control, destroying 47 homes in the Normal Heights area, it was almost an I-told-you-so situation. “Those homes that are burning right now are the same ones where I knocked on doors,” she said. “I talked to people and handed them a checklist of fire precautions.”

McColl warned homeowners to cut the dry brush away from their houses and to plant fire resistant plants such as ice plant in its place. “And you’ve got to get your neighbors to do the same thing,” she said.

San Diego area homes near brush-covered canyons are at high risk, according to the Fire Department. Summer heat and Santa Ana winds create a serious hazard in these areas. Fire officials recommend clearing away all brush and trash for a minimum of 30 feet from homes and removing all brush except for trimmed plants for another 70 feet, keeping grass and weeds trimmed to two inches.

The Fire Department also says all grass and rubbish should be disposed of in containers and a garden hose should be kept hooked up at all times to control flying sparks.

The most dangerous time for brush fires is May through October. Homeowners in high risk areas who have not taken precautions should do so immediately. The San Diego Fire Department will assist individual homeowners or groups of neighbors by making on-site fire inspections and answering questions about specific fire problems.