Calistoga City Manager reports successful emergency response to Toll fire

A recent council meeting in Calistoga highlighted the city's effective response to the Toll fire, which threatened the outskirts of the community last week. City Manager emphasized the successful emergency preparedness efforts that unfolded on the day of the fire, noting that the situation was managed efficiently thanks to quick coordination among local agencies.

The fire, which ignited around 8:30 AM, prompted immediate action from emergency services. The city manager, in consultation with the fire chief, initiated a "soft opening" of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to ensure readiness. This included setting up communication systems and establishing a Joint Information Center to relay accurate information to the public. The collaboration with the County Sheriff's Office and Cal Fire was crucial, with resources like a DC-10 aircraft deployed to combat the flames.

Fortunately, the fire did not escalate to a level that endangered Calistoga, and evacuation orders were lifted by the end of the day, allowing residents to remain in their homes. The community center served as an evacuation site for those in need, equipped with cooling facilities and support services.

In addition to the fire response, council members discussed the current state of local reservoirs, which have seen a significant drop in water levels. The city manager reassured that there have been no complaints from vineyard owners regarding water usage, and efforts will be made to charge for any water taken from city reservoirs during firefighting efforts.

Looking ahead, the city plans to continue operating a cooling center due to high heat indices, encouraging residents to stay hydrated and safe. Community events, including fitness sessions and concerts in the park, are also set to continue, fostering community engagement despite the recent challenges.