The Sandy Fire in Simi Valley, Ventura County, forced thousands to evacuate on May 19, 2026, but residents remained calm and helped each other. - One home was lost, but firefighters saved many structures.
- Residents watered down brush and assisted with animal evacuations. - Helicopters from multiple agencies fought the fire from the air.
- Good brush clearance around homes gave firefighters an advantage. Firefighters stopped the flames before they could spread through the neighborhood, highlighting the community's resilience and preparedness.