Houston Fire Department Supporting a Statewide Taskforce task force of wildland firefighters responding to the devastating fires in the Los Angeles area

The Houston Fire Department is supporting a statewide task force of wildland firefighters responding to the devastating fires in the Los Angeles area. The local deployment group, made up of firefighters from Houston, Baytown, Conroe, Needham, and North Montgomery County fire departments, left Saturday morning. They will stop to rest today near El Paso before continuing Sunday to California. This group is expected to stay for 14 days, but may be extended up to 21 days if necessary.

“Partnerships like this are key to the success of a world-class fire department. We are showing up for our brothers and sisters during their time of need the same way they have for us,” said Fire Chief Thomas Muñoz. “It is a privilege to lead this group of dedicated firefighters. Please keep the men and women close to your hearts as they bravely face this disaster, and continue to pray for those impacted in the Los Angeles area.”

The Texas Division of Emergency Management, the Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System, and Texas Emergency Medical Task Force will deploy more than 135 firefighters, emergency management and medical personnel, as well as more than 45 fire engines, ambulances, command vehicles, and equipment to California as crews battle ongoing wildfires in the southern part of the state.

Before departing, two HFD firefighters spoke on camera about the trip.