(SACRAMENTO)- Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez (D-Pomona) released the following statement today in response to the ongoing Sand Fire that has burned more than 37,000 acres in the Santa Clarita Valley:
“My thoughts are with the residents of the Santa Clarita Valley who have been affected by the Sand Fire and with the thousands of firefighters who are heroically working to extinguish the flames and prevent more homes from being lost. I will continue to monitor the situation and will be reaching out to the LA County Fire Department to ensure the state is doing all it can to assist local fire departments.
Fire crews are working around the clock battling this fire and I am disappointed to hear that, yet again, the presence of drones has been impeding firefighting efforts. This fire is moving quickly. Drones flying in the area of a fire prolongs containment and puts people’s lives at risk. I urge drone owners to act responsibly and not interfere with emergency responders.
As the fire continues to burn, we will be experiencing unhealthy air quality in our area. The South Coast Air Quality Management District has issued a smoke advisory for many communities, including the Pomona Valley. Residents should stay indoors as much as possible to avoid respiratory issues that can be caused by the smoke and ash. My office can serve as a resource for community members who want further information on the status of the fire and evacuations.”
Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez represents the 52nd Assembly District which includes the cities of Chino, Montclair, Ontario, Pomona and portions of unincorporated Fontana.