Dozens of Utah firefighters off to help with deadly California wildfires

WEST VALLEY CITY — Several dozen Utah firefighters and other emergency personnel departed from the Maverick Center Thursday morning. They’re headed to Southern California to aid the response to deadly wildfires burning around Los Angeles.

Crews from 17 different agencies around the Wasatch Front began what was expected to be a 12-hour drive to Malibu.

“We support our neighbors because we know at some point we’re going to need help [too],” said Unified Fire Division Chief Chet Ellis.

New experience for some, not for others

Ellis told KSL NewsRadio that for about half the group, this was their first out-of-state assignment.

But for himself and others, this wasn’t their first task outside the Beehive State.

“Everybody is so gracious and so respectful… it really is humbling,” Ellis said. “It’s nice that we can help. It’s unfortunate we have to, but it’s great that we can.”

Ellis said their assignment was anticipated to last 14 working days, though he noted their timeline could be shortened or extended depending on how the situation plays out.

 “The sky is the limit,” Ellis said when asked what they could be doing when they got to Malibu. 

Utah firefighters are well-trained

All Utah firefighters are trained to battle both structure fires and wildfires. So they could help with the flames in any area. They could also be asked to help with evacuations or triage efforts.

As for Thursday’s work, the plan is to get all the firefighters and fire engines down to the Golden State.

Ellis said they planned to switch out drivers every two or three hours. If they can’t reach their destination by Thursday night, they’ll get a hotel and finish the drive on Friday morning.

Ellis said once they arrive, they will check in with local authorities and get an assignment, “probably right away.”

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