MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- The Stepp Stables were threatened when a fire ignited on Camp Pendleton Oct. 25, near the San Luis Rey gate burning 70 acres before being contained by the Camp Pendleton Fire Department with air support from Marine helicopters.
Evacuation of the stables and rodeo grounds began shortly after the start of the fire, reducing the total number of animals from approximately 480 to less than 200 by the time the fire had been contained, said Debbie McCain, secretary for the stables.
"We had many people evacuate to the rodeo grounds across the street, and some of the private owners took their animals to other farms in the area," McCain said.
Officials said that residents of the Serra Mesa housing area were directed to evacuate to the 22 Area Parade Deck.
Firefighters were able to contain the blaze after they directed it down into a valley nearby.
"Things are safe now, the horses are secure in the stables, and some of the private owners have brought their animals back to the base," McCain said.
Fire crews are still in the area keeping watch for any hot spots that could potentially flare up. Traffic on Vandegrift near the site of the blaze has been reopened in both directions.