U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta and General President Harold Schaitberger visited California to see first-hand the devastation caused by last month’s deadly wildfires and to meet with members of CAL FIRE Local 2881 in Paradise at Fire Station 81 and members of Chico Local 2734 at Fire Station 2 who had responded to the Camp Fire and other recent wildfires across the state.
All that remains of many of the affected neighborhoods is scorched land, burned-out cars and charred trees. More than 65 IAFF members lost their homes in the fires.
“I thank the IAFF for helping to organize the tour and discussions with fire fighters who have shown great courage and professionalism in responding to last month’s devastating wildfires,” says Secretary Acosta. “The administration is committed to helping all of those affected recover from this terrible tragedy.”
“Over the course of this very productive visit, Secretary Acosta heard the stories from the fire line directly from our members and what it is like to be on shift not knowing whether your own home is still standing,” says Schaitberger. “These stories are often stories that we keep to ourselves, but it is important that we get them out there so that decision makers and the public have a true understanding of the challenges our members face.”
