Dallas Fire-Rescue, Texas sending firefighters to help with Los Angeles wildfires

State of Texas is sending 135 firefighters and 45 fire engines, ambulances and command vehicles to Southern California, Gov. Greg Abbott said.

By Matt Kyle
https://www.dallasnews.com/

Dallas Fire-Rescue and the state of Texas are sending fire crews to California to assist with the Los Angeles wildfires, officials said in a statement Saturday.

Dallas is sending six personnel — a type 3 fire engine, four wildland firefighters and two DFR members who will join the emergency medical task force — as part of Texas’ overall initiative to send fire crews to Los Angeles.

In a statement, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said the state is sending more than 135 firefighters and 45 fire engines, ambulances, command vehicles and equipment to Southern California to assist crews in battling the ongoing wildfires.

Abbott’s statement said the wildfire response efforts followed a request from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

“Our hearts grieve with the entire Los Angeles community as they continue to respond to these destructive wildfires,” Abbott said in the statement. “Texans know all too well the devastation wildfires can cause to our communities, and our country is stronger when we come together in times of crisis.”

DFR said the deployment of firefighters begins Saturday and is expected to last up to two weeks, with a possible extension based on needs. DFR also said it is joining crews from Parker County, Greenville, Allen, Frisco and McKinney.

“Dallas Fire-Rescue is proud to answer California’s call for aid and provide critical resources to combat this ongoing wildfire emergency,” the statement said.

Multiple wildfires have been tearing through the Los Angeles area for several days, causing mass evacuations and burning at least 10,000 homes and businesses to the ground, according to the Associated Press. At least 11 people have been killed.

Abbott said he and his wife are praying for California.

“I thank all the brave firefighters and first responders who are answering the call to help Californians in need as these fires continue to burn,” Abbott said. “Cecilia and I pray for the victims who lost their lives and their families, the heroic men and women of CAL FIRE, the Los Angeles Fire Department and the entire state of California during this difficult time.”