Beekeeper Torch Ignites Canyon Blaze

A torch being used by a beekeeper in Williams Canyon today accidentally touched off a brush fire that grew to 10 acres.

No injuries were reported nor evacuations ordered as a result of the blaze, which was reported about 1:30 p.m. deep in the canyon, Orange County Fire Authority Capt. Steve Concialdi said.

About 150 firefighters from the OCFA, Cal Fire and the U.S. Forest Service responded along with three helicopters and three fixed-wing aircraft, Concialdi said.

As of about 6 p.m., the fire’s forward progress was halted and the blaze was 30 percent contained, according to Concialdi.

Full containment was expected by midnight, Concialdi said.

A beekeeper working on some bee boxes was using a torch that accidentally fell over and ignited some brush, Concialdi said.

Despite a lack of wind, the flames spread quickly through dry, drought- stricken vegetation, he said.

Two OCFA helicopters and another from Cal Fire made numerous water drops, according to Concialdi.

Three Cal Fire fixed-wing planes were also deployed. Two of them made six to 10 retardant drops while the third served as a spotter aircraft, Concialdi said.

City News Service