May 9 – Firefighters responded to a 2nd alarm structure fire at the 8000 block of Mesa Vista Ave. in Hesperia at about 4 p.m.. Upon arrival, the fire had spread into the attic and the roof was starting to collapse. Ensuring all occupants were safely out of the home, firefighters focused on combating the blaze and keeping it from spreading to a nearby home, surrounding vegetation and several vehicles. Battling 15-20 MPH winds, firefighters from San Bernardino County Fire and Calfire were able to bring the blaze under control in about 45 minutes.

San Bernardino County Fire Investigators determined the fire started when burning candles in a back bedroom were left unattended. The candle heated and ignited nearby materials and the fire quickly spread into the attic. The home was completely destroyed, with losses estimated at over $220, 000. The America Red Cross responded to assist the five adults and two children who were displaced.

San Bernardino County Fire offers these candle safety tips: never leave a burning candle unattended; extinguish all candles when you leave a room or go to bed; keep candles at least three feet away from anything that can burn like bedding, curtains, blinds, piles of clothing, newspapers, and magazines; be sure to monitor them carefully; store candles, matches, and lighters up high and out of reach of children, preferably in a locked cabinet.

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