AIR ATTACK KEEPS FIRE AT BAY

A big and quick response keeps wildfire to a minimum. Two air tankers and two helicopters joined a dozen ground crews to attack at midday wildfire on Wofford Heights Hill near Kernville Thursday and the full court press by firefighters kept the burn to just seven acres. The fire was burning up hill and driven by strong winds but Kern County Fire and the U.S. Forest Service deployed a Level One response to keep it from getting out of hand. County Fire Captain Tyler Townsend said winter rains have added to waist-high grasses which could make for a dangerous wildfire season.