Florida Forest Service Sends Crews To Battle California Wildfires

August 4, 2015

The Florida Forest Service is sending a crew of 20 wildland firefighters to assist wildfire suppression efforts in northern California., state  Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam said Monday. Wildland firefighters are currently battling more than a dozen large wildfires in northern California, including the quickly-growing 60,000 acre Rocky Fire, west of Sacramento.

“Throughout the years, many out-of-state wildland firefighters have aided our efforts in Florida when our state has been overwhelmed by many large uncontrolled wildfires. Today’s brave Florida Forest Service wildland firefighters are proud to return the favor to help protect life, property and natural resources in California,” Putname said.

The Florida Forest Service’s initial-attack hand crew will join other crews in northern California, where they will receive assignment to the highest priority wildfire. The crews will battle mountainous wildfires in northern California using hand tools like shovels, axes and rakes to manually create a fire break or fire line around the wildfire perimeter.

“Due to the extreme terrain out West, wildfires can be extremely intense and often erratic. Wildland firefighting is an inherently dangerous career, so we have equipped our firefighters with the best training possible to help them fight wildfires aggressively and safely at home and abroad.” said State Forester Jim Karels.

Twenty-nine additional Florida Forest Service fire personnel are currently deployed and assisting in various wildland firefighting and management positions throughout the western United States.

Comments

3 Responses to “Florida Forest Service Sends Crews To Battle California Wildfires”

  1. Mary E. on August 17th, 2015 5:53 pm

    Dear Jesus, please be with and protect these brave men who are doing this dangerous work, keep them safe from all harm and bring them home safely.

    “He(God) will cover you with His feathers,
    and under His wings you will find refuge.

    For He will command His angels concerning you
    to guard you in all your ways.”

    Psalm 91:4, 11

  2. Tate Mom on August 4th, 2015 7:42 pm

    Prayers with these brave men. Come home safe.

  3. Oak Grove resident on August 4th, 2015 4:55 pm

    Its really nice to read about these men going to help others! Thank you!! This is a fine example of why we are called the UNITED States!

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