CALIFORNIA – Wildfires in California have now spread over 40,000 acres, prompting assistance from fire crews across the nation. Among them is a team from Yoder, Wyoming, who have been on the ground for the past five days.
Justin Burkart, Fire Chief of the Yoder Volunteer Fire Department, explained the importance of nationwide cooperation during such events. “Smaller jurisdictions, even California, were overwhelmed by the event that took place. So, we have agreements nationwide that when any other states or jurisdictions need assistance we can go help. So, it’s very important to gather resources around the nation and protect what’s needed,” he said.
The Yoder crew is currently working on the Eaton Fire, the second largest in the area, focusing on patrolling and preparation. They are not alone in their efforts. Five engines from Wyoming have been dispatched to California, including two from Yoder and Goshen County, and one each from Albany, Fremont, and Natrona County.
Burkart emphasized the willingness to assist regardless of distance. “We don’t look at boundaries as a barrier. If other states, other communities need assistance and we have the resources available, we will gladly send them wherever they need to go to help,” he added.
Last year, the Yoder Volunteer Fire Department responded to 25 different fires across the country with 26 firefighters. The current fires in California mark their first dispatch of 2024.
The Eaton Fire, where Yoder’s team is assisting, has a base camp stationed at the Rose Bowl Stadium. Highlighting the significant scale of the devastation occurring in California, that Yoder and crews from Wyoming and beyond are determined to keep fighting.
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