California Fire

The fire in California was started on October 20, 2007. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger declared a state of emergency for 7 California counties. The Governor has played an active role in helping with the emergecy efforts.
People listened to the evacuation request, as the fires spread. This helped in the Emergency effort a great deal. Over 900,000 residents were asked to leave their homes.
California has experienced a drought in the state for 14 years. The 2003 fire took the same route, as this fire has taken in 2007.
Arson in Orange and Riverside counties are being investigated by the FBI at this time.
Masks need to worn, if you are out side for any length of time in California. Doctors recommend the 95% mask to protect from irritants the fire may be spreading.
One hospital was in the path of the fire yesterday and the wind shifted just in time to save the hospital. They were getting ready to evacuate. Asthma is worse ,when fires start. Breathing treatments have to be given at the hospital. One lady received an Inhaler, after not having one for three days. Elderly people had to be evacuated.
Firemen and women were ready this time. The 2003 fire helped to prepare ahead of time, "One fireman stated."
Twenty thousand people are still in shelters. Horses are located at YMCA's and given hay to eat. Schools, hotels, and the Qualcomm Staduim is open, as a shelter for evacuated residents.
You can see water drops from planes and helicopters at frequent times.
Policemen have been knocking on doors and pulling people out.
Fourteen fires are still ongoing. Eight thousand plus firemen are still on the ground. Some working 24-48 hours at a time. They sleep 5 hours, before going back to the fire.
President Bush was on the ground in California today with Arnold Schwarzenegger.
The Marines and National Gaurd are helping with relief efforts.
Three hundred thousand acres have been destroyed since October 21, 2007. The Santa Ana winds are not due to die down until October 25, 2007. Ten people have died and seventy five have been injured.
People went back into San Diego today to find their homes destroyed. People stand in the streets crying, as they look at the place there house once stood.
The President thanked the Governor for having a Disaster plan in place.