Governor Gavin Newsom has announced the deployment of three additional Urban Search and Rescue Team members to Texas. This is in response to severe flooding impacts in the region. A total of 42 California US&R members are now stationed in Kerr, Texas, to support ongoing efforts.
The latest deployment includes Human Remains Detection Teams, complete with canines and their handlers from the Oakland Fire Department and Sacramento Fire Department. Team members from Los Angeles County, Menlo Park, Orange County, and Riverside County are also present in Texas aiding the search operations.
California personnel bring specialized skills to assist emergency operations in areas severely affected by flooding. The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Service (Cal OES) is coordinating closely with Texas through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact.
“We help our fellow Americans in times of need. California is proud to assist in the ongoing response to the devastating Texas floods,” said Governor Gavin Newsom.
Canine teams have been approved for extended work assignments from 14 to 21 days. To prevent overworking, a rotation schedule allows canines two consecutive days in the field followed by a rest day at Base of Operations.
“This is a very difficult task. I appreciate the hard work being done by our crews under very difficult conditions,” said Cal OES Director Nancy Ward. “Cal OES is proud to help those in need in Texas.”
This effort continues California’s history of aiding other states during emergencies. In previous years, California has sent assistance to Hawaii for wildfire response and deployed resources to Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, and Florida for various emergencies.
The current deployment does not affect California’s emergency response capabilities.
