Michigan DNR is sending brave men and women along with rugged equipment to fight raging wildfires in California. 

Michigan Department of Natural Resources firefighters respond to about 500 fires annually, but not all of them are in Michigan. Volunteers can sign up for out-of-state assignments through a nationwide cooperative system. The first wave is preparing to head out west with a crew and off-road fire engines to battle the fires that are devouring parts of California.

The California wildfires have devastated thousands of families, and Michigan is ready to help in any way we can. The highly trained firefighters from the Michigan DNR regularly assist other parts of the country that are in need. Just like when California sent us ventilators in the heat of the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re prepared to help our friends on the West Coast protect families, businesses, and wildlife from these fires.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer

Currently, 15 states from Florida to Alaska are battling wildfires, with most concentrated in western states. Wildfires have engulfed vineyards in California, forced thousands to evacuate and burned homes and businesses. Firefighters in Arizona, Oregon and Colorado also are fighting multiple blazes at once.

In case you were wondering, Michigan is fully reimbursed for expenses when firefighters travel to assist other states.

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