Blue Lake Fire release:

At 1712 hrs on Saturday July 22, 2023, Blue Lake Fire responded with one Engine and one Chief to the report of a residence on fire with an explosion. While responding to the initial call, it was reported that there was a powerline down in front of the residence. The dispatch included an all call for Arcata Fire, Fieldbrook Fire, Humboldt Bay Fire, and Westhaven fire. PG&E was also in route. The Blue Lake Chief arrived on scene and found heavy fire and smoke coming from the residence, all occupants were outside upon arrival.

The first Engine on scene established a water supply from the hydrant at the end of Buckley Road. Arcata’s Assistant Chief and One Arcata Fire engine arrived on scene and assisted the Blue Lake engine with fire attack. Humboldt Bay Fire arrived with one engine and one Battalion. Fieldbrook Chief, and one Westhaven Engine also arrived on scene. Fire attack established a defensive attack, and had the fire knocked down shortly after. After fire was knocked down, a transitional attack began. PG&E arrived on scene and secured the downed powerline.

After the fire was knocked down and overhaul operations began, all mutual aid resources started to be released at approximately 1800. Blue Lake remained on scene for an additional hour and a half to complete overhaul and investigate the cause of the fire.

There were no civilian or Firefighter injuries and the fire controlled within 30 minutes of the arrival of the first Engine. Damage is estimated at $430,000 and following a fire investigation the cause of the fire was determined to be accidental in nature.

Blue Lake Fire District would like to thank our allied partners for their assistance during this incident, Arcata Fire Department, Fieldbrook Fire, Westhaven Fire, and Humboldt Bay Fire. We would also like to thank PG&E.