On Sunday afternoon, the Bell Springs community east of Leggett was reminded of the ever-present power of wildfire when a fire ignited near the prominent landmark known as Blue Rock and swelled to 43 acres in the afternoon wind and sun. As of this morning’s CALFIRE Incident Update, the Bell Fire stands at 43 acres and is 90% contained.
For context, fire containment percentages refer to how much of the fire’s perimeter has been surrounded by a control line that will stop a fire’s progress.
The fire burned through dry grasses and oak woodland. The ignition source remains under investigation.
At least six firefighting aircraft bore down on the Bell Fire on Sunday afternoon as ground resources from CALFIRE, Bell Springs Volunteer Fire Department, and other local fire agencies responded.
Reports from a firefighter on a Bell Springs Community Facebook page indicate that one structure was lost- a chicken coop.
Approximately twenty firefighters remain on the scene today working to patrol for any flare-ups, mop up the burn site, and assist in fire suppression repair efforts.
These incidents remind us of the mutual aid practiced by our firefighting resources in Mendocino County. Bell Springs Volunteer Fire Department is a passionate group of community members who volunteer their time and risk their lives to protect their friends and neighbors
Please, consider supporting the Bell Springs Fire Department by attending their plate dinner with live music and games at Tan Oak Pak on August 13. If you cannot attend but would like to donate, go to their website and click the “Donate” button.
