Fire Departments from Around the Imperial Valley Deploy Strike Teams to Assist with Fires in Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties
Resources Deployed to Assist During High Wind Events and Fire Risks
On January 7, 2025, the Imperial County Fire Department, Brawley Fire Department and El Centro fire department mobilized key resources in support of California’s emergency preparedness efforts. At 7:00 a.m. (PST), the departments responded to an official resource request as part of Operation OES Preposition/Mobilization, coordinated by the San Bernardino County Operational Area.
Through this mobilization, Water Tender 62 (WT 62), a Type 1 Tactical Water Tender, was dispatched to the incident site in San Bernardino County to enhance firefighting capabilities. The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) formally requested the resources to support ongoing operations. WT 62 is scheduled to arrive at the location by 10:00 a.m., ensuring readiness for potential incidents as part of the statewide mutual aid system.
Fire Chief David Lantzer emphasized the department’s commitment to statewide collaboration, stating,
“Imperial County’s emergency response teams continue to provide exceptional service to our region and across California when duty calls. We stand ready to assist our partners and ensure the safety of all communities during emergencies.”
In addition, the Imperial County Fire Department has activated an OES Type 6 Strike Team to assist with fire suppression efforts in Los Angeles County. This team, consisting of multiple firefighters, was sent to support operations during high-risk fire events. The department shared on social media:
“OES Type 6 Strike Team out of Imperial County has been activated to assist with the fire in Los Angeles County areas. We wish our firefighters a safe assignment and return back home.”
The El Centro Fire Department has also deployed a team to assist with the Eaton Fire in Los Angeles County. The team, including a Type 6 engine, three personnel, and a Battalion Chief, is working alongside Imperial County and Holtville Fire Departments. The department stated:
“The El Centro Fire Department has deployed a team to assist with the Eaton Fire in Los Angeles County. Our Type 6 engine, three personnel, and Battalion Chief are working alongside Imperial County and Holtville Fire Departments to battle the blaze. We wish them a safe mission and hope for their safe return.”
These prepositioning efforts reflect ongoing statewide coordination to strengthen resilience ahead of potential fire-related emergencies. This mission underscores the vital partnership between local agencies and Cal OES to mitigate threats and enhance readiness during high-risk periods.
Safety Message: Stay Prepared and Safe During High Wind Events
As Imperial County fire resources mobilize, residents are urged to stay vigilant and prioritize safety during this wind event. Strong winds can increase fire danger and create hazards at home and on the road.
More updates will follow shortly as they become available, stay tuned.