Calaveras County man aids neighbors, checks on homes after Gann Fire destruction
ANGELS CAMP, Calif. —
As more residents return to areas impacted by the Gann Fire, one Calaveras County man is helping neighbors who have not yet been able to make it home.
The Gann Fire, which started near Hogan Dam and Gann roads south of New Hogan Lake, had burned approximately 10,374 acres and was 47% contained as of 5:39 p.m. Friday. More than 1,600 state and local fire personnel were assigned to the fire, according to the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services.
Several evacuation zones reopened Friday, while others were downgraded to warnings. Four zones remained under full evacuation orders.
Chris Cobb stayed at his property as the fire approached. He described flames reaching roughly 60 feet and said he grabbed a hose to protect his home. Volunteer firefighters joined the effort and helped save the house.
Cobb still suffered significant losses, including a 42-foot fifth-wheel trailer, a horse trailer, several structures and a pontoon boat inherited from his late father.
Now, Cobb is helping neighbors who remain away from their properties by checking on homes, caring for animals and helping keep generators running.
He has also had to deliver difficult news.
“I’m here. They can’t be here. So I might as well help as much as I can,” Cobb said after describing telling one neighbor that his home did not survive.
Calaveras County is asking returning residents to document fire damage. Agricultural and livestock losses should be reported to the county Agriculture, Weights & Measures Department at 209-754-6504. Structure and county road damage should be reported to the Building Department at 209-754-6380.
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