Dreier Applauds Firefighters, Area Residents for Response to Pines Fire

September 22, 2006

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman David Dreier (R-San Dimas,CA), today applauded the extraordinary efforts of firefighters to contain the Pines Fire.

On Tuesday, September 19, a forest wildfire broke out in the Angeles National Forest in the hills above the City of La Canada-Flintridge, California. As a result, the Clear Creek School, Clear Creek Ranger Station and Clear Creek Visitor Center were evacuated, and highways into the Angeles Forest were closed.

“The hundreds of firefighters, local first responders and the city officials of La Canada have been courageous and tireless and incredibly effective in responding to the blaze,” Dreier said. “The residents of the Foothills know all too well how dangerous and destructive these fires can be, and the residents of La Canada should be commended for remaining alert and cooperative during this whole ordeal.”

The Pines Fire burned approximately 113 acres, and is expected to be 100 percent contained by Friday, September 22. Firefighters will continue to work the fire after it is contained. Officials with the Angeles Forest announced earlier today that the Angeles Crest Highway, Angeles Forest Highway, and Big Tujunga Canyon Road have been re-opened for traffic but advised motorists to exercise extreme caution while driving through the area.

“The quick reaction to the Pines Fire underscores the importance of providing our firefighters and first responders with the equipment, training, and personnel they need to battle these fires, and I am committed to making sure our communities have the resources to battle these blazes.”

Additional information about the Pines Fire can be accessed via the Angeles National Forest’s Website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/angeles/

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