How Collin County Firefighters Are Helping Fight California’s Wildfires

On Jan. 11, Governor Greg Abbott announced that he directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management and the Texas A&M Forest Service to deploy firefighters, emergency management and medical personnel, fire engines and equipment to support California's wildfire response efforts. 

To help combat the California wildfires, which have already destroyed over 40,000 acres, multiple North Texas fire departments are deploying their firefighters to assist in the efforts. 

Who Is Going

In North Texas alone, the Frisco Fire Department, McKinney Fire Department, city of Allen Fire Department, Dallas Fire-Rescue Wildland Team and Greenville Fire-Rescue all sent trucks and firefighters to help combat the fires.

Frisco Fire Department Fire Marshal and Public Information Officer Kelly Kistner told Local Profile that as of now, it is a 14-day deployment to California. “They should receive an assignment later today,” Kistner said.

In addition to firefighting efforts, two members of the Dallas Fire-Rescue will join the emergency medical task force to deliver essential medical support to fire crews combating the wildfire.

“This teamwork and dedication are critical in containing fires, protecting communities and saving lives,” the Dallas Fire-Rescue Wildland Team said in a statement. 

Statewide Efforts To Help California

The Texas Division of Emergency Management, Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System and Texas Emergency Medical Task Force are mobilizing over 135 firefighters, emergency management and medical personnel, along with more than 45 fire engines, ambulances, command vehicles and other equipment, to support efforts against ongoing wildfires in Southern California. 

“Our hearts grieve with the entire Los Angeles community as they continue to respond to these destructive wildfires,” said Governor Abbott in an official statement. “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.” 

This deployment is being coordinated through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, a state-to-state mutual aid system that facilitates resource sharing and assistance during disasters or emergencies. The system allows member states to provide support across all disciplines, ensures protection for deployed personnel and guarantees reimbursement for mission-related expenses.

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