Atascadero sends aid to Los Angeles to help combat fires
Photo posted to Facebook by Behind the Barn Consignment. Atascadero Fire Department truck is visible in the background.
President approves governor’s request for Presidential Major Disaster Declaration
– San Luis Obispo County fire departments, including Atascadero Fire and Emergency Services and the Cambria Fire Department, have deployed resources to assist in combating wildfires in Los Angeles County.
The Cambria Fire Department announced it sent Water Tender 57 and personnel to assist with the Palisades Fire. “They’re helping provide a steady water supply for firefighting in areas with limited resources,” the department stated. The fire department remains fully staffed to handle local emergencies during the deployment.
An Atascadero fire truck was also spotted on the scene and featured in national news coverage.
Behind the Barn Consignment in Atascadero has organized a supply drive for fire victims. “My truck and trailer will be at the store, 7425 El Camino Real, Unit F, Atascadero, starting Thursday, Jan. 9,” the business posted. Donations will be transported to Los Angeles on Saturday, Jan. 11. The organizer is also open to others joining the effort in a convoy. For more information, contact (805) 464-2072.
Federal and state support
President Joe Biden approved Governor Gavin Newsom’s request for a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration, providing federal funding for emergency response and recovery efforts related to the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires. The declaration includes assistance programs for individuals and businesses impacted by the fires.
Governor Newsom has deployed more than 7,500 firefighting and emergency personnel to combat the wildfires. Resources include personnel and equipment from neighboring states and federal support, including air tankers, helicopters, and engines from the U.S. Forest Service.
“We are putting all available resources behind fighting these wildfires, including leveraging local and federal assets,” Newsom said.
Governor Newsom visited Pacific Palisades and met with local and state fire officials to assess the situation first-hand.
Wildfire impacts
The Palisades Fire destroyed historic structures at two California State Parks, including Will Rogers State Historic Park and Topanga State Park. Among the losses are Will Rogers’ historic ranch house, the Topanga Ranch Motel, state park employee residences, and over 30 other structures.
“California State Parks mourns the loss of these treasured natural and cultural resources,” said Armando Quintero, director of California State Parks. Parks staff successfully evacuated horses and cultural artifacts, including artwork, ahead of the fire.
For wildfire updates, visit fire.ca.gov/incidents. For state park updates, visit parks.ca.gov/incidents.
Top left: Living room inside Will Rogers’ ranch house. Top right: Living room after the fire. Left middle: Exterior of ranch home. Bottom row: Exterior of the stables before and after the fire. Photos from California State Parks.
Top and bottom right: The fire aftermath of the historic Topanga Ranch Motel. Photos taken on Jan. 8, 2025, by California State Parks. Bottom left: The Topanga Ranch Motel before the Palisades Fire. Photos from California State Parks.
Donation opportunities
Residents can support wildfire recovery efforts by donating to the American Red Cross. Visit redcross.org for more information.
The LA Times posted a story Wednesday evening detailing other ways to help: How to help those affected by fires raging across Los Angeles County
