The county handled a trio of fires, two in Bakersfield area and one in Tehachapi. Here are the releases.

Northeast Bakersfield:  At 10:43 PM on 3/7/08, Kern County Fire crews responded to the report of downed power lines in the alley behind Pike St between Lexington and Rosewood.  Upon arrival, the downed power lines were found to be draped over chain linked fences in the alley, and two large palm trees were on fire.  Kern County Fire Dept. crews assisted numerous residents to evacuate and others were instructed to shelter in place.  The fires were contained to the palm trees, although numerous structures were threatened.  However, due to the absence of shake shingles on these homes, none were harmed.  PG&E arrived on scene and de-energized the lines, and all residents returned home safely.  There were 12 personnel from Kern County Fire on scene.  Other assisting agencies included Kern County Sheriff, Halls Ambulance, and CHP.

Oildale, CA:  At 11PM on 3/7/08, Kern County Fire crews responded to the report of a structure fire at 216 Hughes St.  Upon arrival they found a 1000 sq.ft. vacant structure which was 50% involved with fire.  Crews took quick action to protect two other structures nearby.  There were nine Kern County Fire personnel on scene.  No injuries were reported.  Assisting agencies included Bakersfield Fire Dept. and PG&E.  Loss is estimated at $70,000.  The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Tehachapi, CA:  At 7:25 PM on 3/7/08 Kern County Fire crews responded to a reported structure fire at 19185 Rice Dr.  Upon arrival a double-wide mobile home, used for vacationing, was found to be 50% involved.  The structure was unoccupied and fire crews took quick action to contain the fire.  There were 15 personnel from Kern County Fire on scene.  There were no injuries to report and the cause of the fire is under investigation.  Total loss is estimated at $70,000.