Montana Fire Crews Head to California to Battle LA Area Wildfires

Bigfork: Nearly a dozen fire departments from Montana are heading to California to help with the wildfires in Los Angeles. These fires have tragically claimed at least 24 lives and forced many people to evacuate.

Two crews from Bigfork and Whitefish are part of a Montana Strike Force stationed at Will Rogers State Beach. They’re right at the southeast corner of the Palisades fire, which is a big deal.

Firefighters from Flathead Valley will team up with others from Butte-Silver Bow, Central Valley, and Plains. They’re set to be there for at least 18 days, working hard to control the flames.

The Bigfork Fire crew is focused on protecting structures. Al Benitez, a firefighter and public info officer, mentioned they’re using Engine 332, a truck they drove down to help keep the fire away from buildings.

The team includes engine boss Tom Pauley, Jesse Barreto, Shaney Fox, and Paul Friend. Barreto works part-time, Fox is a resident firefighter, and Friend volunteers.

Benitez assured that sending help to California won’t impact their ability to fight fires back home in Bigfork. Since it’s winter, they actually have the resources available.

Plus, the costs for this mission won’t fall on Montana taxpayers. California is covering all expenses, which is a relief.

For updates, Benitez suggested checking their Facebook page. The Palisades Fire has already burned over 23,000 acres and is only 17% contained, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.

Currently, there are about 5,200 firefighters, along with 44 helicopters, 540 engines, 66 bulldozers, and 60 water tenders working to tackle the Palisades Fire.