Quick Action Prevents Fire Spread Near Aliso and Wood Canyons Friday
LAGUNA BEACH, CA – Thanks to swift action from community members and a quick and coordinated response by Laguna Beach Firefighters, Orange County Parks staff, and other local agencies, two potential wildfires near Aliso and Wood Canyons were quickly extinguished on Friday, January 10, 2025.
The first incident began Friday morning when a jogger noticed a smoldering 20x20-foot burn scar while running along a trail behind The Ranch. The jogger immediately contacted OC Parks, whose staff alerted a Ranch employee. The employee acted quickly, using a garden hose to extinguish the burn scar. The Laguna Beach Fire Department’s Engine 4 and Fire Investigators arrived on the scene quickly. There were no active flames and the area was secured.
At approximately 9:25 AM, an OC Parks ranger arrived to assess the situation and contacted the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA). The incident was handled swiftly, with Laguna Beach Firefighters conducting a thorough investigation to ensure there was no risk of rekindling.
“This was a team effort that exemplifies how collaboration and quick action can prevent a potentially dangerous situation from escalating,” said Laguna Beach Fire Chief Niko King. “We are grateful for the proactive efforts of the jogger, OC Parks staff, and The Ranch employees, as well as the professionalism of all responding agencies.”
Later in the day, another burned area was discovered on a back dirt road closer to Soka University. This site appeared to have been used as a warming fire the night before. Though the fire was burned out, hot coals remained in the base. OC Parks staff reported the incident, prompting a joint response with Laguna Beach Firefighters, OCFA, Orange County Sheriffs, and other local personnel. The fire was overhauled and extinguished without further incident.
Though Laguna Beach is no longer in a Red Flag warning and winds have also died down, Laguna Beach Fire Chief Niko King urged residents and visitors to remain vigilant and report any signs of fire immediately. “As we live in a high fire-risk area, every second counts in preventing wildfires. If you see any fire activity, please call 911 immediately,” he said.
This afternoon, the Orange County Sheriff’s office flew over the open space using Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) technology to monitor for any additional hot spots or people. OC Parks Rangers remain on Fire Watch and will continue to monitor the open space. The Laguna Beach Fire Department thanks all agencies and individuals involved in the prompt and effective response to these incidents.
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