49'er Fire
September 11, 1988
Many of us were involved in 49er fire which burned 33,700 acres and destroyed 312 structures. This webpage shares many memories of what happened during the fire: memories of the firefighters; the community; businesses and residents. It also identifies just how fast the fire moved as the dry contitions and winds aligned.
Could Another 49'er Fire Happen Here?
Yes! We share these stories with you to illustrate what it was like and that it can happen again unless we are all commited to fire safety and defensible space. Considering the already dry conditions, small spark on a windy day in August could create another 49'er Fire. We strongly urge you to take time to create your evacuation kit and to develop an evacuation plan with your family and/or neighborhood. Also, be very careful with fire. An uninteded spark from your weed-eater, your Barbeque, your campfire, or your cigarette could ignite the next massive wildfire.
From the Fire Chiefs of Nevada County, 2008 Fire Season Guide
49er Fire slideshow provided by Sean Griffis, CAL Fire -
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