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Ohio deploys firefighting team to California to assist with wildfire control

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has sent three firefighters along with one engine to help with fire suppression.

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Editor's Note: The above video is from a previously published story

As the risk of wildfires in northern California continues to grow, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Forestry is sending a crew of three firefighters along with one engine to help with fire suppression.

ODNR says crews and overhead staff are normally assigned for two weeks but could be extended depending on the situation. Travel, equipment, and wage costs are reimbursed by the requesting federal or state agency.

"Ohio is well prepared with trained and experienced crews, support staff, and resources for wildfire situations," said Greg Guess, wildfire supervisor for the Ohio Division of Forestry. “Interagency cooperation is important for safe and efficient emergency management and wildfire suppression."

Ohio's Division of Forestry trains federal, state, and local agencies in safe and effective wildland fire suppression, manages prescribed fires for forest regeneration, and provides wildfire suppression assistance to other states as part of the national effort to keep communities safe.

Ohio crews and individual management personnel have assisted with hurricanes, floods, and wildfire incidents since 1986.

The move by the ODNR to assist with wildfires in California is just the latest example of Ohio providing resources in areas of need nationwide. 

Approximately 80 first responders from Ohio Task Force 1 are working around the clock at the site of a condo collapse in Surfside, Florida, battling the heat, humidity, rain and emotion.

RELATED: Ohio Task Force 1 remains in Florida fighting difficult weather conditions in search for missing from condo collapse

Also, Gov. Mike DeWine has sent 185 members of the Ohio National Guard and 14 troopers from the Ohio State Highway Patrol to assist at the nation's southern border. 

RELATED: Gov. Mike DeWine authorizes 14 Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers to assist at Texas border

RELATED: DeWine sends 185 Ohio National Guard members to southwest border

Editor's Note: The below video is from a previously published story

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