IAFF Members Injured in Santa Barbara Wildfires

May 7, 2009 – IAFF members from across California are on the frontlines of the Santa Barbara wildfire that has claimed dozens of homes and forced the evacuation of more than 13,500. California fire officials monitoring the blaze have reported 10 fire fighter injuries – three of which are Ventura County, CA Local 1364 members.

“The wind and drought-induced conditions make for a very dangerous mix for our members,” says California Professional Firefighters (CPF) President Lou Paulson. “I am in close contact with Local 1364 President Chris Mahon regarding the injured Ventura County members and reaching out to other responding locals to monitor any additional challenges. CPF will step in to assist, as needed.”

The three Local 1364 fire fighters were part of a strike team working to keep the wildfires from overtaking homes when the wind picked up, causing the fire to spread at a higher rate of speed. Fire fighters Ron Topolinski and Robert Lopez took shelter in a nearby home, but the windows shattered. The flying glass caused Lopez to suffer head lacerations. As the fire worsened, Topolinksi and Lopez exited the home and went to seek shelter in and around their fire engine.

A third fire fighter, Brian Bulger, was nearby in a command vehicle and was able to rescue Topolinski and Lopez, but received thermal injuries to his airway in the process. All three were transported to the Grossman Burn Center in Los Angeles. Bulger is expected to be released soon. Topolinski and Lopez are scehduled for surgery, but are expected to be released next week.

"All three are in good spirits and are anxious to complete the healing process," says Local 1364 President Mahon. "We have Local 1364 members and members from other area IAFF affiliates at the burn center assisting the families."

Meanwhile, four Malibu fire fighters had a close call while providing structural protection and took refuge in a garage as flames quickly spread towards them. When that got too dangerous, they retreated into the home where another fire fighter helped them out of the house. No injuries were reported.

The wildfire, which began May 6, is stilling burning out of control. Incident reports indicate the fire began at a manageable level, but started spreading at a faster rate when wind gusts rose to 50 miles per hour.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has declared a state of emergency for the affected area.