Harris Grade Brush Fire Now 90% Contained
Crews from the Santa Barbara County Fire Department took no chances and used significant resources against a brush fire that broke out on the Harris Grade near Lompoc on Wednesday evening. The fast response limited the fire to less than 20 acres burned. As of midday Thursday, it was 90% contained, with full containment expected by 3:00 p.m.
The suspected cause of the fire was something that spewed from a catalytic converter in a passing vehicle.
The significant resources used included two water tenders, three bulldozers, four crews of people fighting the fire, along with eight air tankers dropping retardant from above. Images and video from the operation were shown live on KCOY 12 and KEYT 3 evening newscasts at 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
The fire was described as moving at a “moderate” pace, burning through pine trees. Wind at the time of the fire was low, which helped slow the spread of the flames.
Fire crews remained on scene overnight to mop up and fully contain the blaze.
