Queensland firefighters join national team to battle American wildfires
Nearly 200 Australian and New Zealand firefighting specialists are preparing to fly to the USA to help battle wildfires across the country, with 12 Queenslanders joining the team.
The 12 Queensland Fire and Emergency Services personnel will leave on Friday to help in the efforts to fight about 90 fires burning across the north-west of the US.
Fire and Emergency Services Minister Craig Crawford said QFES would send their best fire specialists to assist in operational support and structure protection.
“The impact of these wildfires is truly devastating, and I am confident that our efforts will provide some welcome relief to all the firefighters tirelessly battling these fires," Mr Crawford said.
“QFES personnel understand firsthand the dangerous impact natural disasters have on a community and I know they’re eager to provide a first-class emergency response.”
QFES Commissioner Katarina Carroll said the team's departure represented the "strong and respectful relationship" across the international firefighting communities.
“I’m confident that the team we have is well-trained and highly-skilled to deal with the wildfires affecting the US,” Ms Carroll said.
“The situation in the US is constantly evolving, so we want to help as much as we can, and I know our international counterparts appreciate the support and assistance we are able to provide.”
QFES firefighters will undergo briefings, bag checks, and medical tests before departing Sydney on Friday.
Ms Carroll said the QFES team would be involved in firefighting operations across any of 14 American states affected by fires, including roles in managing tactics and resources on the firefronts, and taking responsibility for fire ground personnel.