Electrical Fire Erupts at Calif. Red Cross Office

March 31--VICTORVILLE -- The High Desert Chapter of the American Red Cross needed emergency help Friday afternoon when an electrical fire threatened to burn down the organization's Victorville office, officials said.

A little before 2 p.m., Natalie Hinojoza, health and safety manager for the organization, was getting ready to leave the office on Desert Knolls Road near Seventh Street when she smelled smoke, according to Chris Hammond, lead logistics coordinator.

Hinojoza opened a rear door and noticed a large amount of smoke.

After locating the source of the blaze, she and Hammond used fire extinguishers to try to put out the flames as they called 911, Hammond said.

San Bernardino County firefighters arrived at the location within a few minutes and quickly pinpointed the fire within one of the walls of the building. They were able to knock down and put out the fire after a short time.

According to Hammond, the organization -- which is usually called out to help others during emergencies --will still be able to use the building as they continue to do some repair work.

"Luckily everyone is safe and we're grateful to Natalie for smelling the smoke and jumping into action," he said.

Beatriz E. Valenzuela may be reached at (760) 951-6276 or at [email protected].

Copyright 2012 - Daily Press, Victorville, Calif.