Waterfall Fire Entrapment 2004

On July 14, 2004, initial attack forces from multiple jurisdictions were holding fireline along the eastern flank of the Waterfall Fire with engines, hand crews, and a dozer, supported by aerial resources. As the fire progressed to the south, light and variable winds eased and the down canyon/down slope winds increased. This wind change increased fire behavior significantly and generated profuse spotting.

During this time, medical attention was being provided to two handcrew members who were being treated for injuries sustained on the fireline. Difficult technical rescue operations were underway immediately adjacent to the area impacted by the burnover. Approximately 10 vehicles were unable to egress out of the area before being over run by the fire. Several vehicles were left in place due to the congestion and their operators evacuated the area on foot. Some personnel, due to the congestion, were forced to stay within the safety of their vehicles as the fire burned through the area. This burnover resulted in minor burn injuries to one firefighter and one civilian news reporter. It also destroyed a fire engine, a fire truck and a six-passenger pick-up. Several other vehicles sustained minor to moderate heat-related damage.

Engines, Transition, Initial Attack, Burn Injury, Vehicle Burn Damage