Small wildfire in Mariposa County causes evacuations
Officials in Mariposa County issued evacuation orders after a wildfire broke out off Highway 140 on Monday afternoon.
The Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office said the mandatory evacuation area was on Schoolhouse Road from Highway 140 to Old Highway Road, about 25 miles east of Merced.
The fire was about 20 acres, according to a Mariposa County public information map. A temporary evacuation point was established at New Life Calvary Chapel, 5089 Cole Road, according to a Sheriff’s Office Facebook post.
As of 3:15 p.m., the post was updated to say that forward progress had been stopped and that roads in the area were closed for suppression and mop-up efforts.
Tips to avoid starting a wildfire
- Avoid any outdoor burning.
- Don’t discard lit cigarette butts outside, or toss cigarettes or matches from a moving vehicle.
- Don’t leave any fire unattended.
- Avoid outdoor activities that can cause a spark near dry vegetation, such as yardwork, target shooting or campfires.
- People who live in fire-prone areas should clear debris outside their homes and create defensible space for safety.
- Do not drive or park vehicles in dry grass, which can be prone to catching fire.
Jim Silva
The Modesto Bee