Hundreds of IAFF members from CAL FIRE Local 2881, Redding Local 1934 and other IAFF affiliates are working to contain a fast spreading, deadly fire in Shasta County, California. The fire, dubbed the Carr Fire, has burned 45,000 acres and engulfed approximately 65 structures, at least a dozen of which are homes belonging to Redding Local 1934 and CAL FIRE Local 2881 members.
The IAFF is also sad to report that a member of Redding Local 1934 was killed battling the fire. The member’s name and the details of his death have not been released.
“The impact on our membership and the citizens of California has been devastating,” says General President Harold Schaitberger. “The IAFF is prepared to provide ongoing support to the family of our fallen brother. For our members impacted by this horrific fire, an IAFF Disaster Relief Command Center has been established at the Redding Local 1934 union hall to address immediate needs.”
“We already have several resources in place and are able to offer financial assistance to the members who have lost their homes and peer support to anyone who needs it,” says 10th District Vice President Frank Lima. “More resources will be made available as needs arise.”
The Carr Fire is believed to have started about 30 miles west of Redding when a vehicle caught fire on July 23. Strong winds carried the flames across the Sacramento River and into Redding, a city with 90,000 residents.
The National Weather Service is reporting that the area will continue to experience triple digit temperatures and gusty winds which will make containing the fire challenging.
Governor Jerry Brown has declared a state of emergency for Shasta County to enable the state’s Office of Emergency Services and other agencies to provide aid.