Oregon fire engines allowed to fight wildfires in California

PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — KATU News has been made aware of a post on a social media site claiming that the 60 fire engines from Oregon would not be allowed in California to help battle the wildfires around Los Angeles due to emissions.

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A spokesperson with CAL Fire says that is patently false. “No vehicles from Oregon have been turned around or refused service at Davis Mobile Equipment and all out-of-state vehicles have been services and are heading to or have arrived in Southern California. No emissions testing was performed. All repairs were completed the same day with the exception of a couple because of parts but turn around was early next day,” CAL Fire Spokesperson via email.

“These inspections ensure all engines on an emergency scene are equipped, mechanically sound, and able to respond. This ensures our number one priority of a safe deployment for our firefighters,” the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office said.

CAL Fire tells KATU News the safety checks are related to mechanical operations such as brakes.

After passing the inspections, the teams arrived in Los Angeles and are on the fire lines now.

CAL Fire posted a video on their social media channels showing out-of-state equipment undergoing these safety checks.