With wildfires raging across the state, Governor Kate Brown has activated the Oregon National Guard to assist in firefighting efforts.
The Oregon National Guard has already been deployed this summer to help fight wildfires, using four Blackhawk helicopters equipped with 500 gallon water buckets. Now Governor Brown is calling in more troops as the fires spread and resources are maxed out across the west. About 125 soldiers will begin training this week in Salem.
Gov. Brown: “Oregon National Guard members will join first responders who are working tirelessly to battle these unpredictable wildfires. We have weeks of fire season left, and it is incumbent upon us to make sure that above all else, we continue to protect the public's safety.”
After their training the Oregon guard members are expected to join the fire lines late next week. On Wednesday Governor Brown visited the Canyon Creek Complex Fire near John Day where dozens of homes have burned. The governor urged all Oregonians and visitors to be aware of new restrictions on campfires and other activities that could start new blazes.
