Portrero 1973

At approximately 0800 hours on September 27, 1973, while engaged in fire suppression actions on the Potrero Fire in Ventura County, California Department of Forestry State Forest Ranger 1 Louis Gonzalez was enveloped in a small fire storm. He received second and third degree burns to 20 percent of his body area. In addition, Ventura County Fire Protection District Fireman Ray Valencia suffered smoke inhalation and minor burns during this same Incident. On October 15, Ranger Gonzalez was released from the hospital after successful skin grafts on his hands and knees. He reportedly now has complete mobility of his fingers and hands.

Burn Injury, Extended Attack, Fire Behavior, Entrapment, Medical Emergency, Entrapment