Governor Gavin Newsom has announced the deployment of an additional 1,000 California National Guard service members to support efforts in combating the fires in Los Angeles. This brings the total number of activated personnel to approximately 2,500. The service members are engaged in firefighting and public safety operations as part of a comprehensive state response to the hurricane-force firestorm affecting the area.
“The men and women of the California National Guard have been on the ground since day one – not only fighting fires but also assisting with public safety efforts in communities devastated by these fires. We thank them for their efforts to keep our communities safe,” stated Governor Newsom.
The deployed personnel include Military Police Forces tasked with maintaining traffic control points and ensuring community safety. Additional forces are involved in wildfire suppression through Task Force Rattlesnake, training at Camp Roberts, and providing aviation resources. The increased deployment is expected to be completed by Monday.
In response to the wind event that initiated this crisis, state resources were prepositioned for rapid intervention. Collaboration continues with local, state, out-of-state, and international partners to enhance response capabilities.
California’s all-in response involves over 15,000 personnel including firefighters, guard service members, highway patrol officers, and transportation teams. The effort is supported by more than 1,700 pieces of firefighting equipment such as engines, aircraft, dozers, and water tenders.
Earlier this week, Governor Newsom declared a state of emergency and issued an executive order to aid affected communities. President Biden approved a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration following Governor Newsom’s request for federal assistance against the Hurst, Eaton, and Palisades Fires.
Californians impacted by wildfires can access information and resources at CA.gov/LAfires or apply for disaster assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov or via phone at 800-621-3362. Assistance is available in over 40 languages.
