TRANSFORMER FIRE IGNITES VEHICLE, SHUTS DOWN POWER AND CONFINES RESIDENTS TO THEIR HOMES IN EL CAJON

June 12, 2012 (El Cajon) 9:35 a.m. – Power remains out in parts of El Cajon following a transformer fire this morning. Heartland Fire & Rescue crews in El Cajon responded to reports of a transformer fire in the 200 block of Lincoln Avenue in El Cajon. As crews arrived, they found not only the transformer fire, but downed power lines and a resulting vehicle fire. 

 Firefighters used dry chemicals to quickly extinguished these fires, and San Diego Gas & Electric responded to turn off power in the area to repair lines, said El Cajon public information officer Monica Zech. 

 During the incident, residents were advised to stay indoors along the 100 to 200 blocks of Lincoln Avenue. Eventually, residents on the east side of Lincoln Avenue were allowed to leave, but the residents on the west side are still confined to their homes. 

 Residents are without power in this area of Lincoln Avenue between Lexington Avenue and East Main Street. It may be several hours before power can be restored as S.D.G. & E. crews work to replace damaged power lines.  No injuries were reported.  Firefighters will remain on scene until S.D.G. & E. crews complete the repairs and restore power.