YAKIMA, Wash. — The Yakima County Fire District had help this week from state mobilization efforts, coming directly from the Washington State Fire Marshall’s Office.
YCFD 5 posted to their Facebook this week, explaining that Yakima County was approved to receive help from the state. This help would come in place as strike teams pre-positioned themselves in Yakima in case of wildfires.
Chief Deputy Fire Marshal Bill Slosson, gave me an insight into how much money has been allocated towards fighting emergency fires this year.
“Our estimate is $250,000. That’s the number is based on our experience with that average strike team of engineers and supervision costs per day,” says Slosson.
This money goes towards supplying strike teams, their equipment, food, shelter, and water. Just in Yakima, the strike team had five engines, each equipped with thousands of gallons of water tanks.
Derrick Jensen, the strike team leader stationed at Yakima Fire District 12, said that this could be one of many times they’re called out this year.
“We’re used to responding to multiple calls a year. It’s a draining yet rewarding experience to help these local fire departments,” says Jensen.
According to YCFD 5, nearly 20,000 acres have already burned in Yakima this summer alone.
