Officials are denying that Oregon fire trucks were “delayed” by California safety checks while trying to fight the Los Angeles wildfires.
Complaints emerged over social media that fire trucks sent by Oregon to help fight the wildfires in Southern California were being held up to pass emissions tests. Some claimed that the fire trucks were rejected altogether for not being up to environmental standards. Officials in California and Oregon were quick to shoot down the rumors, saying instead that the vehicles only underwent brief safety checks.
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“We sent 75 fire engines. Your statement about our teams not being allowed into California is false. Our teams arrived yesterday and are working around the clock to help our neighbors,” the X account for the Oregon State Fire Marshal said, in response to a comment that has since been deleted.
“This is false. Oregon has courageously sent CA some of their best firefighters and equipment — all have been here for days fighting these blazes,” Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-CA) said, apparently in response to the same deleted comment. “To say otherwise is not only incorrect, it’s offensive to the brave men and women who are fighting on the frontlines right now.”
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The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection also clarified that no vehicles had been turned away. The checks the vehicles were subject to were standard procedure for any heavy-duty firefighting vehicle, meant to ensure there was no further maintenance needed.
“As firefighting resources arrive from out of state to support the ongoing firefight, safety remains our top priority. Recognizing that these heavy-duty vehicles endure extensive travel, sometimes arriving with worn or out-of-specification components, we are committed to ensuring their safety before deployment to the front lines,” Cal Fire explained.
OSFM Agency Administrator Ian Yocum argued that the safety checks were essential before fighting the fires.
“The vehicle safety check process was critical for our teams. With moving this amount of equipment and firefighters, safety has to be our highest priority,” he said. “Our Oregon strike teams are motivated, committed to what they do, and excited to get out to the line and help where they are needed.”
Cal Fire said most needed repairs were completed within the same day as the inspection, with a few exceptions.
“No emissions or SMOG testing was performed. All repairs were completed the same day with the exception of a couple because of parts but turn around was early next day,” it said.
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Newsom signed an executive order on Sunday in an attempt to expedite reconstruction efforts for citizens. The measure was unrelated to any regulations regarding firefighting efforts.
The death toll from the Los Angeles wildfires climbed to 16 on Sunday. The inferno is set to be the most destructive wildfire in U.S. history.