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Communities still dealing with Caldor Fire fallout a year later

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(KERO) — Sunday marks one year since the Caldor Wildfire erupted in California, burning through three counties for more than two months. This making it the 15th largest wildfire in the state's history.

The blaze burned more than 220-thousand acres destroying one thousand buildings and damaging another 80.

Overall, the fire cost the state more than one billion dollars in aid and repair costs, but for those who lived near the fire the cost was much greater.

Now, area residents are looking back on the losses they faced and moving to rebuild.

"Everybody within this community, whether they lost a home, or they were evacuated or they all were impacted by the Caldor fire," said Grizzly Flats Resident, Jennifer McKim Hibbard

Months after the blaze was fully contained, two men were arrested and charged with arson in connection to the fire.

Both pleaded not guilty and are expected back in court this October.

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WILDFIRE RESOURCES

ASSEMBLE AN EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT

Put together your emergency supply kit long before a wildfire or other disaster occurs and keep it easily accessible so you can take it with you when you have to evacuate.

Emergency Supply Kit Checklist:

  • Face masks or coverings
  • Three-day supply of non-perishable food and three gallons of water per person
  • Map marked with at least two evacuation routes
  • Prescriptions or special medications
  • Change of clothing
  • Extra eyeglasses or contact lenses
  • An extra set of car keys, credit cards, cash or traveler’s checks
  • First aid kit
  • Flashlight
  • Battery-powered radio and extra batteries
  • Sanitation supplies
  • Copies of important documents (birth certificates, passports, etc.)
  • Don’t forget pet food and water!

Items to take if time allows:

  • Easily carried valuables
  • Family photos and other irreplaceable items
  • Personal computer information on hard drives and disks
  • Chargers for cell phones, laptops, etc.

Always keep a sturdy pair of shoes and a flashlight near your bed and handy in case of a sudden evacuation at night.