News Briefs: June 26, 2009
Fire that started at Site 300 burned 2,173 acres
A grass fire that started at Site 300 late afternoon Friday, June 19, burned more than 2,100 acres before being contained shortly after 8 p.m.
The fire began at about 4:30 p.m. and was quickly propelled off site by 40 mph south westerly winds. There were no reports of injuries or damage to any structures at the experimental test site or the off site burn area. Investigators believe that the fire was sparked by power lines whipped by wind gusts of up to 60 mph.
The Lab's Emergency Operations Center, including the Department Operations Center at Site 300, was activated and operational until the fire was declared contained.
According to Dave Lord, deputy chief with the Alameda County Fire Department, about 160 firefighters from 40 engine companies were mobilized to combat the fire.
The Alameda County Fire Department at Site 300 quickly responded to the blaze and was supported by teams from the Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department, California Department of Forestry, East Bay Regional Park District, Tracy Fire Department, Hayward Fire Department, and San Ramon Valley Fire District. The Department of Forestry also deployed air tankers and helicopters.
