Kern Valley Sun

An early morning fire believed to have been started by a space heater sitting too close to a bed sent two Lake Isabella residents to the hospital Saturday, Feb. 7. Kern County Fire Department personnel from Lake Isabella, Kernville and South Lake stations responded to a report of structure fire in the 2600 block of Mountain View in Lake Isabella at about 7:00 a.m.

When fire crews arrived on scene, smoke and flames were billowing from the singlewide mobile home’s living room window, according to a KCFD public information officer. All occupants were able to make it out of the mobile home safely; however, two adults sustained minor injuries. The female received burns to both arms, while the male had burns on his feet. They were transported by ambulance to Kern Valley Hospital. A child was not injured. Firefighters were able to save about $25,000 in value to the mobile home; however, the fire destroyed an estimated $60,000 of property.

The fire is believed to have started when a space heater was left too close to a bed. Firefighters’ quick actions prevented the fire from spreading to a nearby mobile home, said the KCFD PIO. The fire was under control in approximately 30 minutes.

Bill Blanton, of the Salvation Army, sent out word that the young family had “lost everything,” and were in need of a two-bedroom mobile or home for a reasonable price and furnishings.

The Salvation Army can be reached at 379-5100 or pastor Bill Blanton at 417-2725.

The Kern County Fire Department reminds residents to have at least a six feet distance between furniture and space heaters.