Rancho Monserate residents thank firefighters

On behalf of the residents of Rancho Monserate, I want to sincerely thank the fire and sheriff personnel who valiantly fought the Highway Fire that threatened our community on Wednesday May 14. With help from fire companies as far away as Palm Springs, Anaheim and Long Beach, the wind-driven flames that whipped toward our residences were subdued within a few hours.

When Sheriff Department deputies patrolled our streets, announcing a mandatory evacuation, our residents were alerted and able to leave immediately.

Fireman performed “mop-up” maneuvers for many days after the fire. An emotional moment for me happened in the pre-dawn hours of Friday morning when I found firefighters in sleeping bags on cots in the road behind their fire vehicle. They had kept vigil all night, putting out hot spots.

We are indebted to these first responders and applaud their bravery. We still have our homes and possessions, thanks to their grit and determination.

Lenora Sears

Coordinator

Rancho Monserate Country Club

Neighborhood Watch/Emergency Plan