SACRAMENTO, CA — California officials have firmly denied social media claims from right-wing influencers alleging that Oregon fire trucks were turned away from the Los Angeles fires due to emissions regulations. Officials clarified that the trucks underwent routine safety checks before joining firefighting efforts.
Cal Fire Sets the Record Straight
Cal Fire dismissed the widely circulated misinformation, stating, “No vehicles from out of state have been turned around or refused service.” The agency emphasized that any out-of-state resources are subject to inspections to ensure they are ready for use, but these are not emissions tests.
Oregon Teams Fully Operational
The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s (OSFM) office also addressed the rumors, confirming that all Oregon firefighting teams deployed to Southern California began their shifts as scheduled last Friday. The OSFM highlighted the importance of safety checks, noting that their equipment, which typically does not travel long distances, was inspected to ensure it was safe for firefighters.
Governor Newsom Refutes False Claims
Governor Gavin Newsom’s office added that the inspection process is routine and takes approximately 15 minutes to check safety and equipment readiness. Newsom clarified that by the time false claims began circulating, Oregon crews were already actively battling fires in the Los Angeles area.
Collaborative Effort to Fight Fires
California has called on firefighting teams from eight states, as well as Canada and Mexico, to assist in combating the devastating blazes, which have scorched over 60 square miles in the past week. National Guard troops are also contributing to the effort.
Countering Misinformation
State officials and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are working to combat the spread of misinformation, urging the public to rely on verified sources for updates about the fires.
“This kind of misinformation undermines the hard work and collaboration of firefighters and emergency teams from across the country,” Cal Fire stated.
Reference News :- California officials deny false claims Oregon fire trucks turned away
