Alaska firefighting personnel assisting with Los Angeles fires

Alaska personnel are assisting with the response to this week’s deadly fires in Los Angeles that have destroyed thousands of buildings.

The Alaska Division of Forestry & Fire Protection said on social media that two Alaska officials have deployed to California to help with logistics and dispatch operations. The division is working with a national coordination center to determine if Alaska can help further.

At least five people are dead from the catastrophic LA fires, with the death toll expected to rise. Thousands of buildings have been destroyed.

“Our prayers are with the families who lost their homes and the firefighters and other first responders battling wildfires in the Los Angeles area,” Gov. Mike Dunleavy said Thursday on social media. “Alaska is ready to assist California with our resources if called upon.”

State officials said the two Alaska personnel deployed to California were requested by name based on previous experience. Fire crews from other states would likely be asked to assist in LA before those from Alaska, they added.

Reciprocal aid agreements mean firefighters routinely travel between states during severe fire seasons. Out-of-state and foreign crews often come to Alaska in summer to help fight wildfires.

“Lending resources is a joint effort — our successful state-to-state partnerships allow Alaska to send firefighters and resources to support the Lower 48 during their fire season, and they provide assistance to Alaska when we are in need,” a spokesperson for the Alaska Department of Natural Resources said by email.

Officials added that the LA fires serve as a reminder about the importance of mitigating wildfire hazards during winter months.

“Maintaining defensible space and preparing for fire risks year-round makes a difference,” officials said.