Governor DeWine Sends Ohio Firefighting Team to Aid California Wildfires
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced today that a nine-person fire management team from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is heading to California to support firefighters battling the ongoing wildfires in the state. The team, from ODNR’s Division of Forestry, was dispatched in response to a request from fire managers in southern California, where dry conditions and strong winds have intensified the wildfire threat.
“California has been facing devastating fires, and we’ve been anticipating that they may need our skilled wildfire response team,” Governor DeWine said. “Our team is prepared and ready to assist, and I commend them for stepping up and leaving their loved ones to support their counterparts on the West Coast.”
The team, equipped with protective gear, hand tools, chainsaws, and other necessary supplies, departed Columbus today en route to Beaumont, California. There, they will receive further details about their assignment.
“Our fire management crews train year-round to be ready for situations like this,” said Mary Mertz, Director of ODNR. “We are confident in their ability to help protect communities in southern California, and we wish them a safe and successful mission.”
The Ohio team is expected to assist for 14 days, beginning their work on Monday. During their shifts, which typically last 14 to 16 hours, they will aid in controlling the fires and protecting local communities.
This marks the latest instance of Ohio’s assistance in the fight against California wildfires. Last year, ODNR crews helped combat fires in the Cleveland National Forest, Los Padres National Forest, and Sequoia National Forest.
The firefighting team from Ohio is expected to play a key role in managing the fires that continue to threaten the West Coast, further solidifying Ohio’s commitment to supporting national wildfire response efforts.
