As fires burned in northern Los Angeles County two weeks ago, members
of the Newport Beach and Costa Mesa fire departments were there
battling the blazes with their fellow firefighters.
That might seem a bit far from home, but the fire departments'
efforts could pay off if things get bad in their backyards.
The firefighting work was part of a statewide agreement among fire
agencies to help one another in times of need. It's an agreement that
should help us all sleep a little easier, knowing we're not only in
the capable hands of our local firefighters but also that they've got
back-up if need be.
The fires in Topanga and Burbank were just the latest reminder
that we never know when a disaster may strike that requires us to
call for extra help. This weekend's earthquake across the globe in
Pakistan as well as the two hurricanes in the Gulf Coast were even
more horrific reminders.
Eight firefighters from Newport-Mesa were dispatched to the
Topanga fire as part of a five-engine strike team. Once that fire
settled down a bit, they were transferred to the Burbank fire.
We can count ourselves lucky that in recent years we haven't had
to call on others' aid in like fashion. But it's comforting to know
it's there if we need it.
