El Centro Firefighters Return Home After Battling California Wildfires

*El Centro, CA* — September 4, 2024 — The El Centro Fire Department is celebrating the safe return of Battalion Chief Brad Chapin and three firefighters after their involvement in recent Strike Team deployments across California.

Battalion Chief Chapin played a pivotal role in the Park Fire, where he served as the Base Camp Coordinator since late July. This massive wildfire, which scorched nearly 430,000 acres in Butte and Tehama counties, is now 98 percent contained as of September 4. Under Chapin’s coordination, efforts at the fire’s base camp helped support the progress made in controlling the fire.

Additionally, three other El Centro firefighters recently completed a two-week deployment to the Boise Fire in Humboldt County. Assigned to a Type 6 apparatus, they contributed to efforts to combat the blaze that has consumed over 12,900 acres since early August. The Boise Fire is currently 72 percent contained.

All firefighters have safely returned home and resumed their duties. They are now assisting in training newly recruited personnel, who are entering their third week of the fire academy. The El Centro Fire Department remains committed to protecting the community and preparing its members for future challenges.

This successful deployment demonstrates the dedication and bravery of El Centro’s firefighters in the face of California’s ongoing wildfire season.