2 potential wildfires stopped from spreading in Orange County

Two wildfires were stopped from spreading in Orange County Friday amid high-wind warnings and several destructive wildfires burning across the Southland.

Both incidents were discovered near Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, according to the Laguna Beach Fire Department.

On Friday morning, a jogger noticed a smoldering 20’ x 20’ burn scar while running on a trail behind The Ranch resort in Laguna Beach. 

A resort employee quickly grabbed a hose and extinguished the growing blaze before fire crews arrived at the scene.

The second incident occurred later in the day as a burn area with hot coals was discovered on a back dirt road near Soka University. The site appeared to have been used as a warming fire the night before. Though the fire was burned out, the hot coals remained active in the base, officials said.

OC Parks staff reported the incident and crews with the Laguna Beach Fire Department, Orange County Fire Authority, Orange County Sheriff’s Department, and other local personnel responded to the scene. The smoldering fire was extinguished without further incident.

“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.”

As high winds are expected to continue through the weekend and into next week, fire officials are urging the public to refrain from burning things outdoors while fire threats remain high.

“As we live in a high fire-risk area, every second counts in preventing wildfires,” King said. “If you see any fire activity, please call 911 immediately,” he said.

Orange County park rangers will remain on fire watch and continue to monitor open spaces. 

Anyone who spots a potential fire is asked to immediately report the incident to a local law enforcement agency.