Local Fire Fighters Join crews battling southern wildfires

McKinleyville, Ca., (KIEM)- At 1:00 this morning an engine crew from the Arcata Fire District left Humboldt County, heading straight for the Thomas Fire in Ventura. One of five local teams, the group from Arcata will joins crews to the south, battling a fire that’s already been called the 19th worst in state history.

The 132,000 acre fire has already torn through more than 500 structures, threatening 15,000 more. When the call came in for needed resources, Humboldt County Crews were quick to answer. Arcata, Blue Lake, Fortuna, Briceland and Miranda all sent engines south. A chief from Humboldt Bay Fire was also deployed to Ventura county.

“I’m proud that our county was able to get 5 engines and a leader to help down.” Arcata Fire Chief Justin McDonald says, “It’s always concerning when you see engines from Oregon, Arizona and Utah coming in to help. I was glad that we were able to send a group down to assist.”

By 3:00 Friday afternoon the Thomas Fire was only 1% contained. Fire managers do not anticipate the fire will be contained until Christmas Eve. McDonald says local fire fighters understand they’ll be in the area for at least two weeks. “It’s what we sign up for.” McDonald says, missing the holidays is part of the job if it means battling a blaze and saving lives.
Despite the absence of five engines on the North Coast, McDonald says Humboldt County is still prepared for any local emergencies. Crews across town borders are all prepared to help one another get through any incidents that might arise.
Thomas Fire, Image Courtesy: Inciweb

 

-Paid Advertisement-