Oregon Firefighters Deploy to Assist with Wildfires in California’s Los Angeles Area
Oregon state firefighters are on the move, heading to California to offer critical support as wildfires rage in the Los Angeles area. The Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) has orchestrated this mobilization in response to the urgent need for resources in combating the intense fires fueled by high winds and dry conditions. The situation has escalated dramatically, with reports indicating at least two fatalities, over 1,000 structures destroyed, and more than 70,000 residents under evacuation orders.
The OSFM has initially dispatched 12 strike teams to California, comprising 240 firefighters and 60 fire engines. As the crisis unfolded, it became clear that additional resources were necessary. Consequently, three more teams from Benton/Columbia, Douglas, and Polk counties have been mobilized, bringing the total to 15 strike teams, which consists of around 300 firefighters and 75 engines. This collaborative effort underscores the longstanding partnership between Oregon and California when it comes to wildfire response.
### The Importance of State Partnerships in Firefighting
“Oregon and California have a strong partnership supporting each other. We both understand that fire does not recognize map lines, and we are ready to help each other whenever there is a need,” stated Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple in a recent news release. This sentiment is echoed across both states, as they recognize the threats posed by wildfires that often transcend state boundaries.
During Oregon’s historic wildfire season in 2024, California provided vital assistance to Oregon, and now it is Oregon’s turn to reciprocate. The mobilization reflects not only the resources available but also the camaraderie among states that face similar environmental challenges.
### Details of the Mobilization
Firefighters from various regions of Oregon are joining the effort, including those from Clackamas, Clatsop, Central Oregon, Lane, Lincoln, Linn/Polk, Marion, Multnomah, the Rogue Valley, Washington, and Yamhill counties. Each team is equipped with specialized gear and vehicles, such as engines, brush units, and water tenders, to effectively tackle the diverse challenges posed by the wildfires.
In addition to the structural teams, the Oregon Department of Forestry has stepped up by sending six strike teams composed of 70 wildland firefighters and 30 Type 6 engines. These wildland firefighters are trained specifically for battling fires in rugged terrains, making them invaluable in the fight against the ongoing inferno in California.
“ODF firefighters are anticipated to arrive at the incident command post tomorrow, at which point they will be briefed on the situation and then assigned where needed,” the agency confirmed. The two-week rotation allows Oregon’s firefighters to gain experience and also ensures that they can return the favor to their California counterparts who assisted during Oregon’s previous wildfire crises.
### Financial Support and Community Response
The mobilization of resources is facilitated through a mutual assistance agreement between Oregon and California, allowing for the efficient transfer of personnel and equipment during low wildfire activity periods in Oregon. California will reimburse Oregon for the expenses incurred during this operation, ensuring that both states maintain a robust firefighting capacity.
In addition to the firefighters, the American Red Cross has opened at least five shelters in the Los Angeles area for those displaced by the fires, currently serving around 1,200 individuals. The Red Cross Cascades Region is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to send volunteers from Oregon to assist as the need grows.
“We anticipate we will be sending people down there probably sooner rather than later because this is not diminishing. This is a growing evolving disaster, and we’re ready to go. This is what we do,” said Rebecca Marshall, communications director for the Red Cross Cascades Region. Financial donations are encouraged to support the relief efforts, which can be made through the Red Cross website or by calling 1-800-Red-Cross.
### The Role of Local Fire Departments
In a proactive move, the Los Angeles Fire Department has also requested assistance from off-duty firefighters, showcasing the urgency of the situation. Fire department air operations, which were temporarily halted due to adverse weather conditions, resumed on Wednesday morning, reflecting the adaptable strategies employed to combat the fires effectively.
### Conclusion
The mobilization of Oregon firefighters to California highlights the critical importance of collaboration and mutual support among states facing the challenges of wildfires. As both states navigate the complexities of wildfire management, the shared resources and expertise will play a pivotal role in safeguarding communities and minimizing destruction. The swift response from Oregon not only exemplifies the strength of inter-state relationships but also reinforces the commitment to protecting lives and property in the face of natural disasters. As the situation continues to unfold, the collective efforts of firefighters, local authorities, and community organizations will be crucial in combating the devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area.
