The Valley Regional Fire Authority deployed five firefighters to assist in structural protection related to the ongoing wildfires in Palisades, California.

According to VRFA spokesperson Kelly Hawks, the VRFA sent five firefighters as part of a strike team alongside Seattle Fire, Puget Sound Fire, Eastside Fire, and South King Fire to fight fires in Los Angeles County. Hawks said they were assigned to structural protection over the Jan. 11 weekend, and their deployment might last up to two weeks.

“The Valley Regional Fire Authority frequently deploys firefighters and equipment to assist with wildfires in Washington, Oregon and California,” Hawks said. “We maintain a team of 24 ‘Red Card’ firefighters trained to handle wildland fires.”

Hawks said VRFA dispatched a Type 1 fire engine staffed with four firefighters and a VRFA captain traveling with the team to serve as a strike team leader. Hawks said Type 1 engines are the standard vehicles VRFA uses daily to combat fires within their jurisdiction. She added that Type 1 engines are equipped with hoses, water, tools, ladders and other necessary gear for fighting structural fires.

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee issued a statement Jan. 8 after California’s request for assistance. The state’s Emergency Management Division is working with fire departments across the state to coordinate nine task forces made up of 45 engines, 11 trucks and 146 personnel, Inslee said. Additionally, the state’s Department of Natural Resources is sending additional fire equipment and personnel.

“As wildfires ravage parts of Southern California, our thoughts are with those affected by this devastating disaster,” Inslee said. “The destruction has been immense, and the brave men and women on the front lines are putting their lives at risk to protect communities and save lives.

“I have been in touch with Gov. (Gavin) Newsom and have assured him that Washington stands ready to do whatever we can to assist in this crisis. I want to express my deepest gratitude to the dedicated firefighters and first responders from Washington state who have volunteered to assist in the fight against these fires. Their selflessness and commitment to helping others, regardless of state lines, is a testament to the strength of our shared values and the spirit of service that defines us.”

Firefighters and a vehicle from Valley Regional Fire Authority alongside other firefighters from Washington state that left Jan. 9 to help fight the fires in Los Angeles. COURTESY PHOTO, Puget Sound Fire