Local firefighters on frontlines of LA wildfires 'Proud to be representing Oregon'
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Firefighters from Oregon are on the front lines of devasting wildfires in California Friday night. They told KOIN 6 News that despite the struggle, they've made some progress and appreciate the support from back home.
After beginning on Tuesday, and exacerbated by high winds, the fires have so far claimed 11 lives, destroyed 10,000 buildings and put 153,000 people under evacuation orders. More than 55 square miles have burned.
The Oregon State Fire Marshal sent 15 structural strike teams totaling 300 firefighters and 75 engines to help with the multiple fires raging in California, with the Los Angeles area particularly impacted. Upon arrival, they jumped into 24-hour shifts fighting the flames.
The Palisades Fire is among the multiple wildfires burning the Oregon crews are helping with. It has already scorched more than 20,000 acres.
"The main thing is to lose no more homes in the area that we're working on," said Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief Matt Marianai. "I take a lot of comfort in knowing that I can help other communities just as I try to help the communities in my own area."
Mariani has been named as Assistant Task Force Leader for Oregon's Strike Team 7 as part of the Oregon Fire Marshal's efforts.
Mariani joined the 8,000 other firefighters already on the frontline of the Palisades Fire, which has been designed as the most destructive fire in modern Los Angeles history.
Despite the fire continuing to burn, Mariani said they've made real progress. At least 8% of the fire is contained and crews are finally starting to get a handle on the perimeter.
"It makes me really proud to be representing Oregon," he said.
Mariani said the support he's gotten from his home in Oregon has been unmatched.
"I just want to thank everyone for the love and appreciation they've shown," he said.
The Oregon State Fire Marshal calls this one of Oregon's largest out-of-state responses ever.