San Mateo County is mobilizing resources to assist with the ongoing wildfire emergency affecting Los Angeles County. Per a recent press release, over 150 personnel from fire departments throughout the county, along with approximately two dozen fire engines and a support drone, have been dispatched to Southern California to aid in wildfire suppression efforts. The combined force joins an army of over 7,500 emergency responders battling the blazes.

"This is an unprecedented emergency and our neighbors in Southern California need all the help we can provide them as these wildfires rage out of control," said David Canepa, president of the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors, as per the San Mateo County's official website. The assembled teams showcase the region's commitment to mutual aid, with strike teams, hand crews, and specialized units answering the call to serve hundreds or even thousands of miles away from their home base.

The San Mateo County release further details that the Cal Fire San Mateo/Santa Cruz Unit (CZU) has deployed a significant contingent, including 88 personnel representing wildland engine strike teams and hand crews. "Conditions have been extreme," relayed Cecile Juliette, a spokesperson for Cal Fire CZU, quoting the front-line firefighters experiencing severe winds while maintaining a staunch commitment to help struggling communities.

Echoing the challenges, Pat Murphy, a battalion chief with the Central County Fire Authority, told San Mateo County's communications, "We sent one engine on the first strike team. The order came in at 8 p.m. on the 7th and they left at 10 p.m. on the 7th. They made it to Los Angeles in time for the morning briefing," only to endure a 24-hour shift at the Palisades blaze. He added that an engine was deployed this morning and was currently en route to Los Angeles as part of a task force.