Detonated explosives spark vegetation fire

BY ERIC LINDBERG
DAILY SOUND STAFF WRITER

Firefighters battled a vegetation fire near Vandenberg Air Force Base after explosives being intentionally detonated sparked a moderately moving blaze, fire officials said.
Approximately 150 firefighters were on the scene at the height of the firefight, County Fire Capt. Eli Iskow said, and crews brought the flames under control at 6:15 p.m. on Monday.

“They are estimating the acreage at 45 acres,” he said. “That will have to be fully detailed and figured out exactly in full light.”
The fire started at approximately 2:15 p.m. after explosions conducted by an explosive ordnance disposal team sparked vegetation, Capt. Iskow said, with flames spreading west of the base at a moderate pace in slight winds.
One firefighter, stationed at the base, suffered dehydration and was transported to Lompoc District Hospital, authorities said. Four buildings were also evacuated, although no structures were damaged in the fire.
The county fire department had 41 firefighters on scene with eight engines, two bulldozers and one hand crew. Capt. Iskow said crews expected to have the blaze fully controlled by today.