MEDIA RELEASE 4 - PATTISON COMPLEX FIRE

San Andreas – Pacific Gas & Electric reports that power has been restored to all residents originally effected by the fire. The Red Cross says that those families who sustained a loss from the fire can contact the Red Cross for assistance at (916) 997-5023. The Pattison Complex Fire which broke out at approximately 1:40 p.m. on Friday is now 85% contained with full containment expected by 8:00 p.m. tonight. The cost of fighting the fire is over $600,000 to date. The fire that was started by a burning motor home has burned 2,676 acres and destroyed thirteen (13) homes, two of which were under construction, numerous outbuildings, vehicles, and equipment. The damage assessment team continues the work it began Saturday afternoon ascertaining the correct location of property and infrastructure damaged or destroyed by the fire. Firefighters continued their work throughout the night and were successful at completing more of the containment line. Strong winds blew through the fire area early this morning but firefighters were able to keep any new flames from erupting. Today, while there is no visual fire in the fire zone there are hot spots and smoldering vegetation that could put smoke in the air. As firefighters continue to battle the high temperatures and low humidities they will be working to complete the containment lines and extinguish any hotspots they find. Fire officials have begun releasing firefighters and equipment from the incident. CDF land rehabilitation specialists are in the field and beginning the efforts to rehabilitate the areas burned and land damaged by fire suppression efforts. Officials want to remind the public that as we conclude this weekend the potential for fire remains extreme. Please be fire safe and think about what you are doing. Fire and County officials continue to be grateful for the public’s support in this fast moving event.