Fire chars Hidden Valley neighborhood

A weekend fire charred acreage near Hidden Valley Road at Sandhill Road and threatened homes in the area. Multiple fire departments reported to the fire, which was pushed by strong breezes overnight.

Chuck Millar, who heads the North Hidden Valley Volunteer Fire Department, said the fire spread about 20 acres and came near at least two structures. He sent four units to fight the fire, with two units providing backup from the Thunderbird Farms Fire District.

The call came in around 7 p.m. Friday, and it took firefighters about three hours to extinguish the blaze.

It was not the first fire of the day in the area. Thunderbird Farms firefighters battled a blaze at around 3:30 p.m. near Warren and Badger roads. North Hidden Valley provided support. There was also a fire near Papago and White roads that burned about five acres.

Local residents thank all firefighters who helped stop the blazes. This year’s spring rains have caused more growth of brush and grasses, which have dried in sun and wind, creating fuel for fire. Residents are asked to clear their properties of dry grass and brush, especially around the home and take extra caution with open flames, sparks and cigarettes. A resident submitted the following video and photos.