Fairfax, VA – Chief Ernest Mitchell, president of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), has issued the following statement regarding the devastating wildland fires in southern California:
“The International Association of Fire Chiefs expresses our deep sorrow and condolences to the families and friends of the individuals who lost their lives, and to the residents and business owners who lost their homes and belongings to the destructive wildland fires burning across southern California. We are especially mindful of the fact that we lost one of our own fire fighters and that several fire fighters were injured while fighting these fires.
“We also express our gratitude and support to those fire fighters who are working tirelessly to control and extinguish these catastrophic fires. We applaud their heroic efforts to save the lives and property of their friends and neighbors.
“Now is the time for the fire service to help the communities pick up the pieces and start the rebuilding process. We should all pull together and emphasize the tremendous effort that the fire service has put forth under such difficult conditions. Be mindful that we will have time in the future to review the lessons learned and how we can further improve our efforts. We will also have opportunities to develop and implement new policies to help prevent and mitigate further events.
“We have heard countless stories of heroism and bravery during the fight against these disastrous fires, and undoubtedly, there will be countless more. The IAFC is proud of the thousands of men and women involved in this colossal effort.
“To the residents of southern California, America’s fire service will continue to support you and your communities while you rebuild your homes and lives. We will always be there to stand between you and danger.”
