On November 13, 2023 at approximately 1:17 p.m., the Escondido Police and Fire Communication Center received reports of a tree fire in the area of South Orange Street and West 13^th Ave. Upon arrival of the first units, it was quickly determined that the large tree fire had extended rapidly into a wooden fence and an adjacent single-family residence located at 402 West 13^th Ave. Additional resources were requested for a residential structure fire response with a confirmed working fire.

Aggressive action by the firefighters contained and controlled the main body of the fire activity in about 19 min from time of dispatch to the original tree fire. The tree fire extended into the roof, closest wall, and attic space of the house, with significant damage to the electrical panel and service meter.

In all, twenty-three firefighters and one fire prevention specialist responded to the fire. EPD conducted traffic and crowd control, and SDGE was dispatched to address utilities. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters. The Red Cross responded to assist four adults, three children, and one small pet with short term housing, and two $250 “SAVE” gift cards were provided to family members on behalf of the California Fire Foundation. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Safety Message: Working smoke and CO detectors are essential for safe, early detection of fire in all homes.

https://fire.escondido.org/Data/Sites/3/media/pdfs/SmokeAlarmInformation.pdf