Brush fire forces some to evacuate

Several dozen San Bernardino County residents were allowed to return home Tuesday after being evacuated when a fast-moving brush fire caused by a controlled burn got out of hand during high winds.

The Apple Valley fire was first reported about noon in Mojave Narrows Park, on the border between Apple Valley and Victorville, according to the San Bernardino County Fire Department.

The fire initially grew to about 60 acres within two hours, but officials said Tuesday night that it was holding at about 70 acres and was 30% contained. By 7 p.m., all mandatory evacuations had been lifted.

San Bernardino County Fire Chief Mark Hartwig said the blaze would be fully contained Wednesday, weather permitting.

The blaze ignited during a controlled burn in Mojave Narrows Park by the county parks department to clear out cattails, officials said. Winds whipped the flames out of control.

Hartwig said a permit had been issued for the controlled burn.

“No homes lost due to great brush clearance,” he said, adding that the fire should serve as a reminder about the importance of fire mitigation.

One vehicle and one shed were destroyed, officials said. About 200 firefighters, two ’dozers and four airships were used to fight the blaze, officials said.