September 16, 2024 – On Monday, September 9, 2024, a fire was ignited in Orange County near the Trabuco Flyers Club on Trabuco Creek Road. Orange County Public Works employees were using a loader to place a load of boulders heavy as barriers restricting access to the vegetation off Trabuco Creek Road. The loader started letting out smoke and sparked, which started the fire.
According to Orange County Fire Authority Deputy Chief, TJ McGovern, the fire was deemed as “unintentional”. McGovern stated that the OC Public Works employees attempted several times to extinguish the fire after noticing it sparked by using fire extinguishers and loaders while 911 was being contacted.
As of September 16, 2024, the fire is 31% contained and has scorched 23,519 acres of land. Recent colder weather and light showers have helped slow the fire’s spread. Fire officials estimate that the fire will be fully contained by September 24.
There are more than 770 personnel assisting to get the fire under control, along with 10 helicopters, 134 engines, and more. Confirmed damage includes six structures, residential, commercial, and other, as well as 10 firefighter injuries and two civilian injuries.
Thus far, 160 structures have been destroyed and 34 damaged.
Dangers of Wildfires in California
Wildfires are a persistent and growing problem in California, especially in recent years as the state faces prolonged droughts and increased temperatures. These fires not only destroy vast amounts of land but also endanger lives, properties, and entire ecosystems. As seen in the recent Airport Fire in Orange County, fires can start unexpectedly and spread rapidly.
Several factors contribute to the occurrence of wildfires:
- Human activity: whether through negligence, unintentional accidents, or illegal activities, many California wildfires are sparked by human activity.
- Natural causes: extreme heat, lightning strikes, and high winds often contribute to the start and spread of wildfires.
- Electrical failures: power lines and electrical equipment can create sparks that ignite dry brush or vegetation and lead to large-scale fires.
Wildfires can cause widespread devastation and often lead to the loss of homes, businesses, and even lives. Wildfires can have long-term effects on air quality, water supplies, and the overall health of the affected communities.
Potential Injuries and Damages Available to Victims of Wildfires
Wildfire victims often suffer both physical and financial harm, and they may be entitled to compensation depending on the circumstances surrounding the fire. The types of injuries and damages can vary greatly based on the severity of the fire and the level of destruction it causes.
“Wildfires like the Airport Fire can have devastating consequences for both individuals and communities. This fire highlights the importance of accountability and safety measures to prevent such disasters,” says Gerald Singleton, Managing Partner and attorney of Singleton Schreiber, “Those affected by the destruction– whether through injury, property damage, or loss of a loved one – deserve to understand their rights and seek compensation for the harm they’ve endured. Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by this fire as they navigate the difficult path to recovery.”
Some potential injuries and damages available to victims include:
- Physical injuries – such as burns, respiratory issues from smoke inhalation, and trauma from escaping dangerous conditions. Victims may need long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment for these injuries and may be able to recover compensation to cover those expenses.
- Property damage – such as destruction of homes, vehicles, personal belongings, businesses, and more. Compensation victims may be able to recover for this type of damage may include repair or replacement costs for lost property, like rebuilding homes or recovering damaged personal items.
- Wrongful death claims – in cases where wildfire causes death, the deceased’s family may choose to pursue a wrongful death claim. This can allow them to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, loss of financial support, and more.
If you or a loved one have been impacted by the Airport Fire in Orange County, contact the team at Singleton Schreiber today to learn more about your options. Contact the team at Singleton Schreiber today or call (310) 455-8351 to get started.
