Kent-based Puget Sound Fire sends firefighters to combat LA wildfires

Kent-based Puget Sound Fire, a few other local agencies and departments across the state sent firefighters Thursday morning, Jan. 9 to Los Angeles to help combat the wildfires.

Puget Sound Fire sent two fire engines and seven firefighters on the road to Los Angeles as part of a five-engine strike team that included Seattle Fire, South King Fire and Valley Regional Fire Authority, which each sent one engine, according to an email from Puget Sound Fire spokesperson Pat Pawlak. Eastside Fire & Rescue provided one command vehicle.

Puget Sound Fire sent a Type 1 engine, which is the type of fire engine that is used in structural firefighting, Pawlak said.

“We also sent a Type 3 fire engine, which is a 4-wheel drive fire engine,” Pawlak said. “It has a shorter wheelbase, can be driven off-road, and has pump and roll capabilities. The advantage of the pump and roll feature is that firefighters can be extinguishing fire as the fire engine is slowly moving.”

The Washington Emergency Management Division receives a request for assistance, and they send the request out for assistance, Pawlak said.

“When fire departments receive the request for assistance, they determine if they are able to send the requested resources,” Pawlak said. “Firefighters that are deployed have received specialized training and are Red Card certified.”

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.”