Atascadero reports rise in fire incidents amid peak season

Department responds to two significant incidents within 24 hours

– Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services has reported an increase in fire activity in recent days. Recently, over 24 hours, the department responded to two significant fire incidents in its jurisdiction.

On Sept. 9 at 10:31 p.m., units responded to a structure fire in the 6800 block of Morro Road at a four-unit residence. The fire started in the front yard near a fence and quickly spread to the structure, destroying two of the four units. Four residents were displaced by this fire.

The second incident occurred on Sept. 10 at 2:34 p.m. and involved a debris fire in a backyard in the 4300 block of Lobos Ave. Units found an eighth of an acre of vegetation and several fences on fire upon arrival. The fire was quickly contained, and no structures were damaged. The cause of the fire was an unattended barbeque near the dead vegetation.

Fire officials emphasize the importance of fire safety as the community experiences peak fire season. The vegetation in the area is extremely dry due to months without rain and persistent heat waves. Although there is a cooling trend, fuel conditions remain a concern. The department advises that any activity that could cause a spark or ignition should occur before 10 a.m. Additionally, all backyard burning is suspended for the season. With the rise in fire incidents, the department has increased fire season staffing.

No injuries have been reported in the recent fire incidents.