Residents who lost their homes in the raging Bull Fire, and those whose homes were spared came out to the Lake Isabella Senior Center to hear updates on the fire and get the latest on the investigation.
Although the Bull Fire is now burning far from any homes and structures, community members gathered to show their support for the firefighters who worked to save their town.
"Anybody who gripes about paying their taxes, watch these people fight a fire," Kernville resident Robin Little said. "It's the biggest bang for your buck."
Officials told the community fires in their area are inevitable because of the dry brush and steep terrain. One resident brought a piece of dry brush to remind residents to clear the area around their homes.
"You know the public has a responsibility to maintain their clearance around their property and that's because it allows our firefighters and law enforcement folks to go in there and basically do an effective approch attacking the fire," Incident Commander Rocky Opliger said.
The cause of the fire is still unknown but officials said they are investigating. Firefighters expect another seven to ten days until the fire is fully contained.
While emotions still run high in the tight-knit community, the firefighters appreciate the continued support.
"The firefighters do a heck of a job," Oplinger said. "Being in this job for 38 years, it just impresses me the support they give the folks that have to be out on the line."
There will be another community meeting tomorrow night on the Bull Fire at 6 p.m. at the Odd Fellows Hall in Kernville.
