A team of brave firefighters from the Houston area is on their way to California today to lend a helping hand in battling the dangerous and destructive wildfires that are currently ravaging the southern region of the state.
On Saturday morning, crews from various cities including Houston, Baytown, Conroe, Needham, Porter, and other parts of Montgomery County embarked on their journey westward.
The group is anticipated to remain for a period of 14 days, which may be extended to 21 days if deemed necessary.
The city of Houston announced on Saturday that it will be deploying over 135 firefighters, emergency management and medical personnel, along with more than 45 fire engines. This deployment is being coordinated by the Texas Division of Emergency Management, the Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System, and Texas Emergency Medical Task Force.
The team heading to California has expertise in combating wildland fires. Moreover, the engines they are bringing along are specifically designed to tackle brush and forest fires.
“It’s a special engine. It’s a typical engine except it’s for wildland, bigger pumps, more water, so if we need to do structure protection we can, but it’s for wildland,” explained Chris Mixon with the Houston Fire Department.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott revealed on Saturday that the state would be dispatching firefighters, emergency management and medical personnel, fire engines, and equipment to aid in the response efforts. This action was taken in response to a request made by CAL FIRE.
“Our hearts grieve with the entire Los Angeles community as they continue to respond to these destructive wildfires,” said Abbott. “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.”