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Public Safety

North County Representatives React To Lilac Fire

A burned down home at Rancho Monserate Country Club off U.S. Route 395 is shown in this photo, Dec. 8, 2017.
Susan Murphy
A burned down home at Rancho Monserate Country Club off U.S. Route 395 is shown in this photo, Dec. 8, 2017.

Representatives from North County have released statements in reaction to San Diego County's Lilac Fire.

Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Vista, said his heart was "heavy" Friday over the destruction wrought by the Lilac Fire in northern San Diego County, which he represents in Congress.

"I pray for the safety of everyone in our area, for the families who've lost homes, property, and for the many more who've been forced to flee as this devastating fire continues to spread," Issa said in a statement.

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RELATED: Parts Of Fallbrook In Ashes As Lilac Fire Rages On

The congressman said he has been in touch with local officials and offered support.

"I appreciate the swift response from all of our emergency responders and volunteers as well as the call for, and prompt approval of, a federal emergency declaration that will allow assets at all levels of government to be fully deployed," Issa said.

He said safety continues to be the first priority, and urged constituents to keep an eye on the news, heed public safety warnings and evacuate, if necessary.

Sen. Joel Anderson, R-El Cajon, sent constituents a list of shelters and safety tips from San Diego Gas & Electric, Ready San Diego and the San Diego Humane Society.

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"My constituents' safety is my biggest concern right now," Anderson said. His district covers much of the eastern half of San Diego County, including the area adjacent to Interstate 15 where the conflagration started.

Assemblywoman Marie Waldron, R-Escondido, tweeted: "The devastation my constituents are enduring in my district is heartbreaking. My office and I are participating with emergency services, the governor's office, Cal OES and CalFire to get information, aid and resources out to our residents. LilacFire."

Her district also includes the area where the blaze originated, along with Bonsall and Fallbrook.

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