The wildfires raging across California have been devastating. Thousands have lost their homes and businesses and record numbers of our fellow citizens have been forced to flee. As the fires continue to burn and the Santa Ana winds continue to blow, there are brave men and women on the frontlines fighting to contain them. And at the same time, a massive effort is underway to help those individuals suffering from this tragedy.
The federal government is working with state and local officials to provide fire-fighting assistance and disaster assistance for those who have lost homes and businesses. The bipartisan California Congressional delegation, Governor Schwarzenegger, and President Bush are working together to ensure every need is met. President Bush has already declared a Federal Emergency, which frees up federal resources to help fight the fires. For example, the federal government is providing Modular Airborne Fire Fighting Systems (MAFFS) units to assist the fight. These units are self-contained, reusable 3,000 gallon aerial fluid dispersal systems that attach to airplanes. These units provide an emergency capability to supplement existing commercial tankers that fight wildfires. Additionally, we have requested and received a Federal Disaster Declaration from the President. This declaration will ensure that federal assistance will be made available to those who need to rebuild their lives. Assistance will also be available to state and local governments to repair disaster-damaged facilities.
This natural disaster has affected millions of Californians, and the full scope of the damage has not yet been realized. As we work first to contain the fires, we must be ready to help those whose lives have been destroyed once the fires are out. We can take steps now to be ready when the rebuilding begins. For evacuees, help may be needed now in the form of simple items like diapers or clothes. For those who have lost their homes, much more will be required. Please visit my website for information on how you can help, updates on the battle against the fires, and what the federal government is doing to help those affected.
Sincerely,
David Dreier
Member of Congress