An intense fire believed to have been sparked by illegal fireworks destroyed one home and damaged two others in Hesperia on Wednesday afternoon.
The flames ignited about 1:20 p.m. Aug. 5 in the 13400 block of Palm Street, according to the San Bernardino County Fire Department.
Firefighters responded to what was first reported as trees and a shed on fire when they encountered one house “heavily involved” with flames, “with fire extending to two neighboring homes,” according to agency spokesman Christopher Prater.
Officials declared a second-alarm response, drawing assistance from Cal Fire and the Victorville Fire Department.
“Firefighters conducted an aggressive fire attack and protected nearby homes, bringing the fire under control in approximately 90 minutes,” Prater said in a written statement.
One home was completely destroyed by the blaze, while to others sustained damage described as minor to moderate.
One firefighter was treated at the scene for heat-related illness but did not require hospitalization, Prater added.
Investigators believed the fire was started by fireworks, he said.
“San Bernardino County Fire reminds residents that illegal fireworks can quickly lead to devastating fires, especially during hot, dry conditions,” according to Prater.
The American Red Cross was summoned to help find temporary lodging for four adults, seven children and a dog displaced by the fire.
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This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Fire blamed on fireworks destroys Hesperia home, damages two others
Reporting by Brian Day, Victorville Daily Press / Victorville Daily Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Brian Day, Victorville Daily Press | USA TODAY Network
