Harrowing Rescue During Thorn Fire

Media
15 hours ago
2 min read

A Boulevard couple is safe today thanks to the quick actions of CAL FIRE/San Diego County Fire firefighter paramedics and a Sheriff’s deputy who helped them escape the fast-moving Thorn Fire Wednesday evening.

Initially, Patti Fisher, 74, and her partner Dan Shanahan, 70, watched the fire move away from their Tierra Heights home—until minutes later, it suddenly shifted direction. Flames nearly 20 feet high reached their backyard as helicopters dropped water overhead.

Sheriff’s Deputy John Ferris had checked on the couple earlier in the afternoon. At first, they were unsure if they wanted to evacuate. Ferris encouraged them to get ready, then continued warning neighbors. About 35 minutes later, he returned and found the couple struggling to get Fisher into her wheelchair. Smoke was beginning to surround the home.

“I was incredibly concerned,” Ferris said. “It was very close.”

Ferris immediately called for an ambulance. Firefighter Paramedics Fredric Miltimore and Lee Woods were rerouted from the fire line to help get Fisher safely out. As they left, the couple saw black smoke swallow up the home and feared it would be destroyed.

“That was pretty traumatic because we were taking off at the last minute and that was really scary,” Fisher said.

“We were staring at 20-foot flames for sure,” Miltimore said, describing the remote property surrounded by burning brush and narrow dirt roads.

Woods added, “We basically peeled out of there. It was stressful. Glad we were able to help.”

Additional fire crews arrived right after the ambulance left and continued fighting the fire through the night. Their efforts saved the couple’s home.

Fisher and Shanahan were taken to a Red Cross Shelter, where they stayed for 24 hours until it was safe to return. Fisher expressed deep gratitude for the firefighters, Deputy Ferris, and County Office of Emergency Services staff member Carina Martinez.

“These guys do such a good job. I’m sure it’s because they care,” Fisher said.

“I’m glad they’re happy and I’m glad they’re safe,” Deputy Ferris said.

This incident is a reminder that wildfires can change direction quickly. Residents should always be prepared to evacuate with little notice.

The couple getting ready to catch a ride back home from CAL FIRE/San Diego County Fire after the danger passed. | Click on image to enlarge.

The County’s Office of Emergency Services offers free Personal Disaster Plan templates, including versions for people who may need assistance, available in 12 languages.

Residents are encouraged to create an evacuation plan, build an emergency kit, sign up for AlertSanDiego notifications, and download the Genasys Protect app to stay informed.

County Fire, OES and Sheriff’s work together to protect lives and property through rapid emergency response and coordinated disaster operations. Taking steps to get prepared today can help keep you and your loved ones safe.