Bittersweet homecoming for Valley Fire evacuees
CALISTOGA, Calif. (KGO) -- The Valley Fire that broke out last Saturday, has burned more than 74,000 acres, destroyed 888 structures, including 585 homes and is still only 50 percent contained.
Some Calistoga residents began to make finally their home way on Saturday.
The first wave of evacuees returned to Calistoga, which they fled one week ago. In total, 85 people lined up in their cars hoping to check on their homes and animals.
DONATIONS: How to help victims of the Valley Fire where you live
It's a painful homecoming for the Cervantes family. Their home was destroyed by the Valley Fire.
"This is bad. This is really bad," said Anna Cervantes, who has lived in the area for the past 30 years.
"We have to start all over again. We can't worry about this forever," said Samuel Cervantes.
RESOURCES: Valley Fire evacuation centers, school closure information
The Valley Fire took all of Daniel Curtis' prized possessions, including his Mustang and a 1968 GTO he was restoring. His home was also reduced ot ashes.
"It's hard to believe it's all gone in the blink of an eye," said Curtis.
Charles Wolfensperger's appliance store survived but his heart is with his neighbors now.
"Knowing we can be there for them, thinking about those who lost their homes and their lives," is what is more important right now said Wolfensperger.
A local assistance center is now open to help fire victims. "Think critical records, like DMV," explained Tim Runion with the California Office of Emergency Services.
Back at the Cervantes home, something was just salvaged
Residents were also escorted to their homes in Hidden Valley, Cobb, Loch Lomond and Anderson Springs.
They were given just 15 minutes to see if their homes are still standing and retrieve or feed animals. They were not allowed to get personal items or even medication.
Authorities are warning those who return home to be careful cleaning up ash, as tree ash is non-toxic and safe for basic cleanups, however, the ash from burned homes and other items can be toxic.
Sonoma County deputies say to wear a mask when cleaning and do not use leaf blowers, as they just push ash into the air. They add, most vacuums do not filter small particles, so they advise using a hepa vacuum instead.
If any ash gets on your skin, be sure to wash it as soon as possible. Wet ash can cause chemical burns.
Meanwhile, workers began to clean out the soot and smoke that has damaged the schools in Middletown. That includes purifying the air, wiping down surfaces, specialized vacuuming and throwing out rotten food inside fridges.
Just one school was severely damaged. It is Loconoma Valley High School, a continuation school for Middletown High. Classes will be relocated while it's rebuilt.
VIDEO: Middletown High School football team eager to get back on field
Click here for full coverage on the Valley Fire.
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