Idaho mobilizes firefighting teams, local agencies to support California’s wildfire efforts
Firefighters from Kootenai County Fire and Rescue, Timberlake Fire Protection District and Hauser Lake Fire Protection District and Worley Fire District.
Photo courtesy of Kootenai County Fire and Rescue
BOISE — Idaho is mobilizing five task forces to assist in protecting communities threatened by wildfires burning in Southern California.
104 firefighters and 25 fire engines were deployed Thursday morning to support California’s response efforts, according to a press release from the Idaho Office of Emergency Management.
Several North Idaho agencies have deployed resources to aid in the firefighting efforts, including Timberlake Fire Protection District, Northern Lakes FPD, Timberlake Fire and Rescue, Paradise Valley FD, Kootenai County Fire and Rescue, Shoshone County FD #2, Worley FPD, and Selkirk Fire Rescue and EMS.
"We are honored to be part of the team helping protect lives and property during this critical time," said Northern Lakes FPD in a social media post.
The task forces are set to arrive in Southern California on Friday.
IOEM and the Idaho Fire Chiefs Association will continue monitoring the situation and stand ready to provide additional assistance as needed.
“Emergencies like these remind us of the critical importance of teamwork and mutual aid,” said IFCA President Kirk Carpenter. “Idaho firefighters are prepared to join the fight in California, standing shoulder to shoulder with our partners to protect communities in harm’s way.”
IOEM received the request for support through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact.
"EMAC is a vital interstate compact that provides a proven mutual aid framework allowing states to share resources during times of disaster or emergency," said the press release.
All costs associated with deploying resources under EMAC are paid for by the requesting state.
“The Emergency Management Assistance Compact has been invaluable in ensuring that states can rely on each other during crises,” said IOEM Director Brad Richy. “After receiving support during our own wildfire seasons, Idaho is proud to return the favor by providing resources and personnel to help protect California’s communities.”