Oregon Strike Teams Arrive in Southern California to Work Wildfires

Los Angeles, California – Fifteen strike teams from Oregon, consisting of 300 firefighters and 75 engines, have arrived in Southern California to assist with wildfire suppression efforts in the Los Angeles area. Eleven of these teams began their assignments on Friday morning, focusing on the Palisades Fire burning north of Los Angeles.

The crews are expected to remain deployed for up to 14 days, tasked with protecting homes, patrolling for hotspots, and working alongside CAL Fire and other state and federal agencies.

“We are in contact with our teams, and they are in good spirits. They’ve received their assignments and have started their work,” said Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple. “I am honored to work alongside the Oregon fire service who raised their hands to say they will go without question. This shows their commitment to jump into action no matter what, embodying the Oregon spirit.”

Prior to their deployment, the strike teams underwent routine safety inspections with CAL Fire in Sacramento. These checks ensure that all vehicles are equipped, mechanically sound, and ready for emergency response.

“The vehicle safety check process was critical for our teams. With moving this amount of equipment and firefighters, safety has to be our highest priority,” said OSFM Agency Administrator Ian Yocum. “Our Oregon strike teams are motivated, committed to what they do, and excited to get out to the line and help where they are needed.”

This deployment marks one of the largest out-of-state responses the Oregon fire service has supported, comparable to its 2017 efforts in Santa Rosa and Napa. The Oregon State Fire Marshal is maintaining communication with California authorities to monitor the evolving needs of the firefighting efforts.

This strike team incudes a number of engines and personnel from the Medford Fire Department, Ashland Fire Rescue, Jackson County Fire District 3, and Illinois Valley Fire District.

Source: OSFM