State launches historic firefighting partnership with Pala Band of Mission Indians

SAN DIEGO – Working to fortify state and local resources to keep Californians safe from all-hazard disasters, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services created a first-in-the-state partnership with a Tribal Nation. Through an agreement with the state, the Pala Band of Mission Indians and Pala Fire Department are now a partner of the California Fire and Rescue Mutual Aid System.

In particular, Cal OES is assigning a Type III fire engine to the Pala Fire Department, increasing their capability to respond to local and statewide incidents. During times of disaster, the Type III engine may be called upon to preposition ahead of or respond to emergency incidents statewide.

“Cal OES is thrilled to create a historic partnership with the Pala Band of Mission Indians and the Pala Fire Department,” Nancy Ward, director of Cal OES, said. “Increasing capabilities of the California Fire and Rescue Mutual Ahead peak wildfire season, the new partnership between California’s Office of Emergency Services