LUCERNE, Calif. – An early morning wind-driven structure fire displaced a couple from their home on Hendricks in Lucerne on Tuesday.
Northshore Fire Protection District Deputy Chief Pat Brown said Lake County Central Dispatch received multiple 911 calls about the fire, which was first reported at approximately 5:19 a.m.
In response to the calls the dispatch was increased to include equipment from Northshore Fire's Lucerne, Nice and Clearlake Oaks fire stations, according to Brown.
Five minutes into the call, based on reports from the first arriving engine from Lucerne, Brown said the duty chief called a second alarm, with additional equipment from Upper Lake and Clearlake Oaks Stations dispatched.
Northshore units that responded included four engines, two medic ambulances, two chief officers and two support units, he said.
A very aggressive fire attack by first arriving units included roof ventilation on the multi level roof, and ceilings pulled in the garage area, living room and the cathedral ceiling in the master bedroom, Brown said.
The fire started on the exterior of the home near the recycle plastic container and the investigation continues, Brown said.
Red Cross was called to the scene and provided aid to the couple, including temporary housing, Brown said.
Fire loss to the home is estimated at around $80,000, Brown said.
Salvage covers were placed throughout the house, and Brown said high priority items of the residence were recovered.
A local contractor was contacted to provide board up and plastic covering for the home before the heavy rain fall started, he said.