California's Continuing Fires

Although over 1,400 fires have been contained in California this season, there still remain 330 active fires, with warmer, drier weather in the forecast. As of yesterday (7/6) there were nearly 20,000 people involved in the firefighting effort statewide, and a large swath of California had been designated a federal disaster area by President Bush. (17 photos total)

A firefighting airtanker drops Phos-Check fire retardant over the Gap fire as more than 1,000 wildfires continue burning across about 680 square miles of central and northern California, on July 3, 2008 near Goleta, California. (David McNew/Getty Images)

Firefighters from Santa Barbara's Engine 43 Los Padres National Forest, monitor the purposely set back-burn along Highway 1 in Big Sur, in an attempt to contain the Basin Complex fire to the east side of Highway 1 on Friday July 4, 2008. (AP Photo/Maria J. Avila - Mercury News)

The Piute fire burns out of control as more than 1,400 wildfires continue to burn across about 550 square miles of central and northern California, on July 1, 2008 south of Isabella Lake, California. California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has declared a state of emergency in Kern County because of the Piute fire which is threatening several communities in the mountains east of Bakersfield, California. Firefighters have completed fire containment lines around 11 percent of the 11,500-acre fire growing in the Sequoia National Forest. (David McNew/Getty Images)

A firefighter walks away from a brush fire burning out of control in the Santa Ynez Mountains near Goleta, Calif., on Saturday July 5, 2008. (AP Photo/Phil Klein)

A U.S. Marine Corps CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter drops water over the Gap fire as more than 1,000 wildfires continue burning across about 680 square miles of central and northern California, on July 3, 2008 near Goleta, California. (David McNew/Getty Images)

Firefighter Mike Leslie of North Carolina is covered with ash after returning from fighting a wildfire in Big Sur, California July 5, 2008. Fire crews have successfully defended the village of Big Sur but have been able to contain only 5 percent of Basin Complex blaze, which has destroyed about 20 homes. (REUTERS/Robert Galbraith)

A firefighting Erickson Air-Crane helicopter drops Phos-Check fire retardant on the northern front of the Gap fire as more than 1,000 wildfires continue burning across about 680 square miles of central and northern California, on July 5, 2008 near Goleta, California. The 6,660-acre Gap fire is spreading across the chaparral-covered Santa Ynez Mountains of the Los Padres National Forest, drawing closer to many houses that were rebuilt after the 1990 Painted Cave fire destroyed 400 homes. (David McNew/Getty Images)

The Big Bear Hot Shots crew member from the San Bernardino National Forest stops to drink while cutting a fire line at the Gap fire, officially the top priority fire in the state, as fire pushes northward in Elwood Canyon to a ridge where it is vital that firefighters stop it, on July 6, 2008 near Goleta, California. (David McNew/Getty Images)

A forest smolders with the Piute fire burning out of control as more than 1,400 wildfires continue to burn across about 550 square miles of central and northern California, on July 1, 2008 south of Isabella Lake, California. (David McNew/Getty Images)

10 Tanker Air Carrier, a DC-10 jet converted to a firefighting aircraft, drops Phos-Check fire retardant over the Piute fire as more than 1,400 wildfires continue to burn across about 550 square miles of central and northern California, on July 1, 2008 south of Isabella Lake, California. (David McNew/Getty Images)

A firefighter uses a special gun to start a backfire on a wildfire burn in Big Sur, Calif., Thursday, July 3, 2008. The raging blaze near Big Sur was one of more than 1,700 wildfires, mostly ignited by lightning, that have scorched more then 770 square miles and destroyed 64 structures across northern and central California since June 20, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)

Firefighters watch flames draw closer to back-country homes, rebuilt after being destroyed by a massive fire in 1990, that are again in danger of being consumed by the Gap fire as more than 1,000 wildfires continue burning across about 680 square miles of central and northern California, on July 3, 2008 near Goleta, California. The 5,400-acre wildfire threatens about 200 homes as it spreads through the chaparral-covered Santa Ynez Mountains in the Los Padres National Forest. (David McNew/Getty Images)

A firefighting airtanker drops fire retardant near homes along West Camino Cielo Road, Friday, July 4, 2008 in Santa Barbara, Calif.. The Golita fire has doubled to 5,400 acres and triggered more evacuations but has not destroyed any homes. Residents of more than 1,700 homes remained under evacuation orders. (AP Photo/The Los Angeles Times, Spencer Weiner)

A pair of U.S. Marine Corps CH-53e Super Stallion helicopters scoop loads of water from the Pacific Ocean in an effort to suppress a wildfire in Big Sur, California July 4, 2008. California firefighters held the line overnight on two wildfires burning along the California coast that threatened more than 4,000 homes and other structures, fire officials said on Friday morning. (REUTERS/Robert Galbraith)

A red sunset is seen in Pismo Beach, Calif. due to the smoke in the air from fires burning in the Santa Ynez Mountains and Big Sur, Calif., on Saturday July 5, 2008. (AP Photo/Phil Klein)

Firefighters monitor a burning redwood tree along Highway 1 in Big Sur, Calif., Saturday, July 5, 2008. Cooler temperatures and marine fog allowed firefighters here to gain some ground early Saturday on an obstinate wildfire that wiped out this world-famous coastal retreat's holiday tourist trade. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

More links and information:
Weather aids Calif. wildfires fight - Boston.com 7/7
With Pride, Californians Step Up to Fight Fires - NYTimes.com - 7/7
Life at Big Sur Fire: hard work, free fruit - SFGate.com (San Francisco Chronicle) 7/7
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Official site with situation updates
Map of current fires as of 7/6

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THANKS TO ALL THE GREAT MEN WHO RISK THEIR LIVES FIGHTING THESE FIRES, WE HAVE A GREAT COUNTRY AND A BUNCH OF GOOD BRAVE MEN, GOD BLASS

Posted by JOSE July 24, 08 02:46 PM

very cool pictures
as a fire fighter my self worked on maney wild land fires
and out a lot of hourd

Posted by Terry Ireland July 24, 08 05:43 PM

thank you all firefighters i dont care what people say you are all true heros thank you so much for your dedication im just 11 but i can still see that you CAN save the world

Posted by Johnathon Brushwood July 24, 08 06:30 PM

Marvelous photo's ,but so scary, makes me even more thankful of the daily rains we are getting here in Florida.

Posted by sharon hollywood July 24, 08 07:44 PM

After watching the helicopter and air tankers make drops just across the freeway from the Gap Fire, I have only one thing to say about the fire fighters, "They are Awesome." They hit every hot spot with precision and calculation. They protected our city and home of others and my cudos go out to them. Thanks to all. AMEN

Posted by Steve Gonzales July 24, 08 08:12 PM

Having lived in the bay area for 10 years and knowing the fires that can break out at any time i can truly say these photos tell the real story.

I lived in the Bay Area for ten years and must say these photos tell it like it is. God be with our firefighters and take care of the poor people that lossed everything.

Posted by marla fitzgerald July 24, 08 10:38 PM

Everyone say a prayer for our heros and the victims of these fires. Let us learn from this and try to find better ways to take care of mother earth. "Take care of her and she will take care of us, Take care of her not and she will not take care of us!"

Posted by Meteorologist Brian Davis July 25, 08 12:18 AM

Yes, a blessed AMEN to our firefighters protecting special people, their familes and friends... truly, what would we do without one another to protect and serve one another? Stop and say a prayer to the servers that protect each and every one of us.................

Posted by Kathryn winton July 25, 08 12:35 AM

STOP TALKING ABOUT THE PATHETIC ATTENTION SEEKING # **, THIS "PERSON" IS THRIVING ON THE ATTENTION AND YOU ALL ARE JUST FEEDING THE PIG.
MY HUSBAND HAS BEEN A FIREFIGHTER AND IS NOW A CHIEF FOR CDF (NOW CALLED CAL-FIRE) I'D LOVE TO GET AHOLD OF THE IDIOT WHO DESIDED TO CHANGE THE NAME OF THIS CA "OUTFIT", CA IS SO BROKE, BUT THEY FOUND THE $$$$$$ TO CHANGE THE NAME ON STATION SIGNS, INFO. DIRECTORIES,TRUCKS, UNIFORMS....(AND SO MUCH MORE). SO, CA LET'S GET MORE IN DEBT AND CONFUSE PEOPLE IN THIS TIME OF ENORMOUS BUDGET CUTS! OH, AND IN "CELEBRATION "MY HUSBAND ,THE CHIEF ,GOT AN EVEN BIGGER, MORE GAS GUZILING 4 -WHEEL DRIVE TRUCK. CHEIF'S DON'T EVEN GO INTO THE ROUGH TERRAIN, THEY STAY DOWN LOW AND GIVE DIRECTIONS. YEARS AGO MY CHILDREN AND I WORRIED ABOUT HIM GETTING BURNED UP, NOW WE WORRY ABOUT HIM HAVING A HEART ATTACK OR FALLING ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL. (THAT'S WHAT KILLED OUR 25 YEAR OLD NEPHEW 3 YEARS AGO, 14 DAYS ON A FIRE AND RUNNING ON ADRENILIN, BEING FEED GARBAGE! ) HE GOT OFF THE FIRE AND WAS SO RUNDOWN, HE FELL ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL. GOD BE WITH YOUR SPIRIT MATT. OUR FAMILY (ESPEASICALLY IS MOM AND DAD) WILL NEVER BE THE SAME, BUT THY SURE GAVE HIM A LOVELY FUNERAL! THEY FEED OUR HEROS GARBAGE (SUGAR AND MORE SUGAR, CANDY, COOKIES, GATTER-AIDE AND GOOD OL' AMERICAN KOOL-AIDE). THEY WORK THEM TO THE GROUND. MY 55 YEAR OLD HUSBAND IS OVER WEIGHT AND HAS HIGH COLESTEROL. PLEASE KNOW THAT OUR FIREFIGHTER'S FAMILY ALSO SUFFER TREMENDOUSLY! THE DIVORCE RATE IS AMONG THE HIGHEST. MY "CHIEF" HAS BEEN ON DUTY FOR 27 DAYS AND THERE IS NO END IN SIGHT. LIKE OUR TROOPS IN IRAQ AND AFGANISTAN, THE POWERS THAT BE DON'T THINK TWICE ABOUT "SQEESING WATER FROM A STONE". I LOVE MY HUSBAND, BUT THE EMOTION AL TOLL AFTER 33 YEARS OF MARRIAGE HAS BEEN TOO MUCH TO BEAR. WE HAVE ALL MORE THAN PAID OUR DUES! MY HUSBAND SAYS THAT NOTHING BAD WILL EVER HAPPEN TO HIM, BUT I KNOW BETTER. SAY PRAYERS FOR OUR HEROS, THE VICTIMS AND OUR EARTH BUT PLEASE DON'T FORGET ABOUT THE FAMILIES OF THE HEROS. AGAIN #**,SCR** YOU!

Posted by BRIDGET GANLEY July 25, 08 01:12 AM

Our love goes out to the fire fighters and families they do so much for our state and get no thanks, but this is the way we all are. Hopefully this will change.

Posted by Phil Ayers July 25, 08 04:45 AM

GOD BLESS ALL THE FIRE FIGHTERS AND GOD HELP THE PEOPLE WHO HAVE LOST SO MUCH.

TED HANNEGAN GUADALUPE,CA.

Posted by TED HANNEGAN July 25, 08 02:34 PM

god take care of the firefighters, the people that lost everything, and our country.
07-25-08

Posted by marla fitzgerald July 25, 08 03:41 PM

The fires are s-o-o tragic! ...but the photos are absolutely awesome! God bless the firefighters for all of their efforts! My heart goes out to those who have lost so much due to the fires.

Posted by Sharon E. Lesser July 25, 08 04:54 PM

I am from Kelowna, B.C. Canada and about 5 years ago we had a devastating forest fire which ultimately took over 220 homes. Our fire fighters indeed were heroes and many of us put up signs in our front windows which simply said "Thank you to our heroes". The signs were provided by our local newspaper publisher. The churches in the community put on a multi-faith thankfulness and praise church service in our 8000 seat arena which attracted many and paid tribute to the heroes and the volunteers who arranged for accomodation for those who lost everything. My family was evacuated (scary experience) but we were fortunate in being untouched physically.

Posted by Bob Gibson July 25, 08 05:46 PM

GOD BLESS!!! They're all in my prayers....

Posted by Stephanie Stapleton July 25, 08 11:57 PM

I live not far from the Basin Fire now, and In all my years I've never seen anything close to these fires.

Living previously in So.Cal. and living very close to the Azusa, Glendora, Claremont, La Verne, Upland, San Bernardino fires not so long ago, all I can say is we should always make it a point when we see fire fighters at the market, or Starbuck to shake there hands, cause without those men and women I ask, where would we be?

My hat is off to each and all, along with my undying gratitude.

Posted by Dave July 26, 08 02:33 AM

These are really fantastic pictures.

I would love to see pictures of the real Northern California fires where I live. The Black Fire, the Merrile fire, etc... They are continuing to burn out of control.

Posted by Joyce Jones July 26, 08 11:49 AM

Hi im 15 and I live in Gainesville Florida and I am enrolled in an academy and I hope to become a firefighter one day. This academy I am in, if i complete this academy and then the school will send me off to firefighting college and if i pass that then I will become a firefighter and I want to be a Driver/Operator. I was always told that i am a great leader because when I play paintball no one want to lead through the danger zone and I am the one that always steps up and I very rarely get my team mates shot. I hope to serve my country in firefighting and ever since i was in a Jr. Fire Academy, I have always wanted to become a firefighter.

Posted by Trey Davis July 26, 08 07:09 PM

As a teenager I helped fight a sagebrush fire and see a man overrun and burned to death. That image at age 79 has never left me. Thank god for those brave men and women that put there lives on the line to fight these fires. My heart goes out to all of them.

Posted by John R. Ward July 26, 08 08:17 PM

Living in the mountain forests of Western North Carolina our prayers go out to our fellow citizens in California. Where ever you live there are dangers from Mother Nature. Be thankful for the safety you have and thank the Lord, in whatever guise you believe in him, for the continuation of that safety.

Posted by Mark Kovach July 27, 08 07:28 AM

Thank you God, for the men and women of the fire fighting service.

Posted by Dee July 27, 08 11:46 AM

My son "just turned 20 (days ago)" was on the Piute fire. He said they had to "back off" on a line...which means, "get the F"""" out!" As a retired cop, I fear for his and all other firefighters' safety. God Bless them, as California burns.

Posted by Bob Hartshorn July 27, 08 06:48 PM

I live in the western Sierra mountains and my house is surrounded by beautiful forest. I pray there is never fire in these serene mountains but I know if there ever was, these brave men and women would "have my back" and I am forever grateful for that assurance. THANK YOU for all you do!!!!!

Posted by Jodi Parra July 27, 08 10:55 PM

So, W and Arnold came to see the fires. Suit them up and send them out on the fire line.Hey, make tons off $$$$$ and film a reality TV show! "Can YOU survive beening caught in a fire storm?" I mean, the pictures were so "awesome", take it a step furture! I you're really lucky you might get to see people get burned and maybe killed! Cool man...

Posted by JimPalermo July 28, 08 12:37 AM

I don't understand why they're not utilizing the new "Evergreen 747 Supertankers" to fight these devastating fires. These are far more efficient, dropping much larger payloads of water or retardant then present air tankers. These can be seen at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KvBRWTumoZI

Posted by Dave Dogbreath July 28, 08 02:13 AM

SPEECHLESS! WOW! Incredible photography!.. FIREFIGHTERS ARE AWESOME!! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK! THAT'S WHAT REAL HEROS LOOK LIKE IN ACTION!

Posted by STEPHEN MATHIES July 28, 08 06:30 AM

I LIVE IN THE NEW ORLEANS AREA. HAVING BEEN THROUGH HURRICANE KATRINA, I KNOW HOW PAINFUL AND DEVASTATING NATURAL DISASTERS CAN BE. DON'T KNOW WHICH IS WORSE, FIRE OR WATER, BOTH ARE HORRIBLY DEADLY. HEARTFELT THANKS AND APPRECIATION TO ALL THE BRAVE VOLUNTEERS, FIREFIGHTERS, POLICE, MEDICAL, ETC., WHO HAVE PLACED THEIR LIVES IN DANGER FOR THE PROTECTION OF OTHERS. THANKS BE TO GOD FOR THEIR SAFETY AS WELL AS THOSE WHO THEY RESCUED; MATERIAL THINGS CAN BE REPLACED. TIME AND PRAYERS HEAL. GOD BLESS!

Posted by JANET GENUSA July 28, 08 11:49 AM

California be the phoenix! God bless you!

Posted by Donna Henry July 28, 08 03:55 PM

no fighting now kids !!! everyone knows FIREFIGHTERS ROCK !!! the woods used to burn every summer til the rains...the main problem now is that there are way too many people...thank you for not breeding n adding to the problem...THANK YOU FOR SAVING ORR HOT SPRINGS outside of Ukiah CA - its our gem...

Posted by Gael Kreider July 28, 08 05:32 PM

These photos are fabulous, It's crazy how there is art in everything. I understand the danger for the fire fighters , and don't mean to take away from that. Being drawn to danger I think is a human trait. Everyone stay safe and God Bless

Posted by Terry Burns July 28, 08 08:04 PM

I'm married to a HERO, danger? Adrenilin? All that over time? Who knows, he doesn't say much when he comes home...eats, sleeps...He forgot that OH YEAH,I HAVE A WIFE, OH AND KIDS TOO. So when we get the divorce will we get a discount from the state of CA? Will there be support groups for the "HERO " WIDOWS and WIDOWERS? WIIL THE KIDS HAVE A SPECIAL SUMMER CAMP FOR KIDS OF HEROS? Got to go put the children to bed, then I'm fixing a drink!

Posted by Margarita Ville July 28, 08 11:50 PM

The photo's are beautiful but what is more amazing are the brave men & women fighting these fires, they ceryainly need our prayers. If the fires were deliberately started by humans they should be punished to the highest intent.

Posted by Vi Lea Kraft July 29, 08 12:06 AM

We have aweful bush fires in Australia, yearly, which takes the lives of precious animals and people at times. It's a crime one cannot describe when we know that many of these fires are deliberately started. Thanks to all those who help control these tragic situations. May the people who have fun starting the fires grow up some day and do something good for their community.

Posted by josie onufryk July 29, 08 02:56 AM

I have a grandson fighting these fires and I pray and hope they get them all out fast. His dad is a Forester and he is following him in the Forest Service. I think the pictures were great and we pray for their safety every day. These men are the real Heros.

Posted by Gerald Bergstrom July 29, 08 06:23 PM

wow

Posted by Anonymous July 29, 08 08:49 PM

That is a very devastating situation which takes a very long time to get and position personnel, equipment and supplies to be able to combat the spreading inferno. I commend the personnel whose job it is to take on situations like this and the volunteers who give their undaunted effort in fighting these fires. May God look over these people and their families, friends and any others who are involved in ending this fearful catastrophe. May he also look after and bring help to those who have lost family, friends, homes and any other loss.

Posted by John F. July 29, 08 11:49 PM

Is there anything more frightening than a fire! To be surrounded by a bush fire must be the most terrifying experience! God bless and keep those brave men and women who are fighting the California fires and comfort and provide for those families who have lost literally everything...... but their lives! Thank God for that mercy!

Posted by Valerie Parkin July 30, 08 12:52 AM

The Bravest of the Brave.....our firefighters! God Bless Them

Posted by Leigh July 30, 08 05:21 PM

GOD BLESS all of you fire fighters that are working tirelessly trying to save Calif. I can't imagine the extent of damage, and I too live in the Western Sierras and fire season hasnt even started. My heart goes out to the family who lost their son/husband in Washington. Also to all of the people who lost everything.

Posted by Renee Beaubien July 30, 08 07:51 PM

#73 Kudos, you're right on track.

Posted by snoop July 31, 08 11:47 AM

Awesome but heartbreakimg

Posted by Barbara Lorance July 31, 08 12:49 PM

I live in the Prague/Czech republic -very far from California.But my dauther lives here and had a possibility in this May to visit Big Sur and the beautiful natur around. I am very sorry with all peoples livig here an the firefighters have my deepest admiration and respect. God bless them...

Posted by Lenka Rajtorova July 31, 08 07:15 PM

From the present safety of Escondido, Mary and I support all the wonderful efforts being provided by all Fire agencies, and especially fire-fighting crews in the horrendous scenes on this Big Picture of northern fires in our State. We pray for the safety of all crews in these dangerous fire zones.

Posted by Rev. Dr. and Mrs. E. Christofferson August 1, 08 02:48 PM

Brave .... Courageous ... Hero's . . . thank you .... everyone of you ...
both men and women. I lived through a wild fire in Ventura County
in the 70's ... and I have a great deal of respect for what you all
have done. G o d B l e s s ......

Posted by Barry Valentine August 1, 08 04:55 PM

What a set of tremendious shots it is great to see the air strike planes and choppers which are available over there in the us. I am a firefighter in south Australia and have been to bushfires over here.Al the best to all firefighters come home safely.

Posted by John Hoskins Australia August 1, 08 10:41 PM

I thought smoking was banned in California????

Posted by Buzz McCabe August 2, 08 08:27 PM

My son, Jess, maps these fires for the Forrest Service and he put a link to these photos on his blog, Burning Pixals. These are spectacular photos, and I am alomost frieghtened by the power of the fire. Thanks to Jess, and to the great photographers!

Posted by Jim Clark August 3, 08 12:54 AM

wow!

Posted by bob August 3, 08 07:38 PM

IF ONLY WE HONORED OUR MILITARY HEROS AS MUCH AS OUR FIREFIGHTERS!

Posted by KATHRYN August 4, 08 01:06 AM

My heart goes out to all our firefighter heroes and their heroic wives and their heroic parents and their heroic children. Our firefighters risk their lives and the welfare of their own families to be on the line for us. Support your local fire department. Call to see what you can do to help.

Here is my prayer for our firefighters and their families:

Father in Heaven. We are greatful for the rain that has helped so much. Please bring more. Please bless all our firefighters and their families with thy love. Keep them in thy watchful care. Bring them safely together again. Comfort those familes that have lost loved ones and or have lost homes and all they have. Help us that have been spared to find ways to help them in return and make us worthy recipients of their diligent and courageous efforts. Thank you Father. We love you. In the sacred name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.

Posted by Tom Lystrup - CA resident August 4, 08 11:22 AM

wow i had no idea that the fires would get this bad and i thank alll of the men and women who fight fires every day i hope all of you keep those people who are figting those fires in your prayrs that those people stay safe and to give them their stranth every day and to keep hope that the fires will die away

Posted by Beth champion August 4, 08 03:41 PM

Very nice pictures, WOW. I am glad that these guys are doing a good job in the profession that they have chosen to do. That is why they make the money they are paid. My Grandson wants to be a firefighter, when he grows up. I told him it is a good paying job with a great retirement that is paid for by the Taxpayers. So I hope the firefighters never forget that they are making a good living paid for by the taxpayers and they are doing a good job for the money, which should be expected of all Civil Servants. If the Teachers of Calif. want to make money like firefighters, they need to have the work ethic like fighters have and perform like firefighters as well. Teachers always have excuses as to why they can't get the job done. "Firefighters Just Get It Done". So teachers get it done or go fight fires and stop complaining about not being paid enough.

Posted by Steve August 4, 08 05:04 PM

These fires are often started deliberately. They're kept going because "fighters" are only paid when they are "fighting" fires. The term "fuel" (which used to refer to undergrowth and dead limbs) is now used by such people to refer to the trees themselves. These endless, deliberately set fires will never stop happening until the U.S. creates a "Fire Service" with members paid a monthly salary. When not fighting fires, members would be maintaining equipment and training. I've been breathing the smoke from these fires for two months now and I'm sick and tired of this problem. It's just like during the fires of 2002 when the entire (500,000 acres) Kalmiopsis wilderness area was allowed to burn to the ground.

Posted by John August 5, 08 05:16 AM

My brother - Laine Meyer - was a fire fighter in the summers. That is how he got thru college. I have every respect for these men and God Bless Them!!!

Posted by Cinda Canine August 5, 08 08:50 PM

Many thanks to all those firefighters who risk their lives. They are in my prayers.

Posted by Patricia Winston August 6, 08 03:42 PM

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL, SERENE LOCATION. HAD THE OPPORTUNITY OF LIVING THERE FOR TOO SHORT OF TIME, BIG SUR, CARMEL ETC. WHAT A HEARTBREAK TO SEE THAT DEVESTATION. GOD BLESS THOSE THAT LIVE THERE, FIGHT THE FIGHT LIKE THE FIREFIGHTERS ALWAYS DO AND OUR COUNTRY. WHO SEEMS LIKE WE CAN'T GET A BREAK ANYWHERE.

Posted by ALISON August 6, 08 07:11 PM

My husband is a Captain for our fire dept. in El Dorado, Ar. My heart felt well wishes goes out to all the fire fighters who are fighting this raging fire. God be with all of them as well as the homeowners who are losing their homes.

Posted by Linda C Bates August 7, 08 01:52 AM

Your pic's are great. My husband just left Ohio to help with the fires in California. He has saved his vacation time from his full time job to be able to help 2 weeks or more during the peak fire season. #73 is totally off base. The men and women who help to save the many acers of land and homes should be honored and thanked.
The many wives,Mothers, Fathers Siblings, children and other family and friends who are left at home to pray for each and everyone who is in need of extra help.
My husband has done this for approx. 27 years and I still worry about him even though he has extensive experience with fires and forests

Posted by Rita Baughman August 7, 08 02:54 PM

#73 you are out of line. You need to pick up a shovel, leave your family, work days on end, feel the heat and drag your sorry A$$ up hill when you've run out of water, all the while running from the beast that has no feeling. You couldn't pack their heavy gear on a good day in that smoke filled enviorment.
The recent helo crash with so many "Heros" on board should make you rethink your heartless comments.
Quote from # 794 "On the battlefield of fire. . . . their courage makes them heroes next to the angels......." You got it right.

Posted by Don Meyers August 7, 08 04:07 PM

These pictures are just amazing! How can something so devistatingly tragic be so beautiful??. God be with all the fire fighters. We can smell the smoke here in San Francisco.

Posted by Louise August 7, 08 11:18 PM

This is a tragic time and god bless all you firefighters helping. From all the way in New Jersey... I really pray all people in California stay safe. We should all pray for the fires to stop, and all to be safe and healthy.

Posted by Michelle August 9, 08 10:33 AM

These fires have been going on for millinia. Why do people choose to live in these fire-prone areas - just for the view? Our prayers go the FIREFIGHTERS defending these expensive houses with their lives on the line.

Posted by Mary A. Reiser August 9, 08 06:07 PM

God Bless the firefighters in this country. One can never question their service.

Posted by M. Gadway August 11, 08 06:12 PM

Here I am in Centralia Kansas, looking at the fires in California and thinking, God made special people to fight fires. Looking for a glimpse of my son, who is a wildland firefighter and thinking how proud I am of him, and pray that God is with all of them keeping them safe. There service is underestimated as they give of themselves to help others. The pictures are amazing.

Posted by Anita Deters August 11, 08 07:27 PM

Amazing... the more the deadlyer... hope they make it.

Posted by Stephen August 12, 08 04:31 PM

I'm a mother whose son is in California fighting the fires. He is another of the many firefighter who spends his 2 weeks vacation in harm's way. God willing, he will come home safely in a few days. I pray for him and all the firefighters who are so devoted and willing to give of their time to help others. God bless them all!

Posted by Pat in Pennsylvania August 14, 08 04:03 PM

those are some prity

Posted by Anonymous August 16, 08 01:30 AM

Absolutely awesome pictures yet heart breaking for the men and women and their families for the danger they are all going thru may God shower them with his love and protect them and keep them all from harms way. Thank you all for all for the love and support you give to mankind.........I Bid You Gods Speed

Posted by Danette in Washington August 16, 08 07:15 PM

Posted by Danette in Washington August 17, 08 12:52 AM

I live in NC but I drove through Goleta on July 2nd, while these fires were burning and there was ash falling from the sky like snow. You couldnt see that sun bc the smoke covered up the sun thats how thick the smoke was. I was visiting a friend of mine who was on lunch break from fighting the fires, poor thing she was so exhausted. They had been battling the fire for days already and wasn't even 50% contained yet...

Posted by Chad August 23, 08 09:27 AM

I think the photographs and courage of you Americans show are second to none around the world. We, down in New Zealand, don't experience this sort of ecological disaster.
My heart goes out to all the fire fighters in your country and the biggest ataboy and heartfelt gratifications go out to the men, woman and teens currently protecting the world, (us included) from terrorism and war.
Our country at most is behind you and supports you in mind, body and soul. Unfortunately we don't have a realistic government that would improove our military so we could help more.................
Remember it is the same in our little country as it is in most.......vocal minority always beats the quiet majority.......
We don't see or hear enough of you......These pics came via a friend so good luck one and all you brave souls......Fire...paramedical......military......Im a true blue kiwi with my wife and 9 kids thinking of you all. (Henry Family )

Posted by Wayne Henry Auckland New Zealand August 24, 08 09:02 AM

To all the men and women who risked their lives to preserve ours, our homes, and communities. My Aunt and Uncle live in Mendocino County, a lovely place that always takes away my worries and pain when I visit. Unfortunately, it has been a site for some of the worst fires this year. Just the other day, on their way home to Booneville from Ukiah, they met a water tank trucker who said they may not make it home, but not to worry, their A-Frame cabin was safe. The fire came within a hundred yards of their beautiful, rustic home next to the Navarro River. They lost a few grand trees that were burning from the inside out, but their home was saved. The firefighters were there until late at night, cutting up the trees and hosing them down to make sure the fire didn't flare back up.
I'm in the process of painting a picture; I wasn't sure where it was going to go at first, but it seems to want me to tell the tale of the fires that ravaged our state this year. When it's done, I'll dedicate it to everyone that fought to keep us safe. Thank you.

Posted by Holly Schleper August 26, 08 02:49 AM

God Bless to all firefighters!!!

Posted by Carlito P.Cruz August 28, 08 08:18 AM

863. You have got to be joking, or are you really that stupid? Obviously you haven't ever tried to even put out a camp fire.

Posted by Monica September 7, 08 03:58 PM

Spent two (2) tours in Vietnam, and thirty-four years fighting fires, from Minnesota to the West Coast.

Both took about 1/3 courage, 1/3 training, and,,, 1/3 stupidity!!!

Stay safe, BROTHERS!!!

Posted by Fritz Seidel September 7, 08 04:46 PM

I have been with the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) for over 33 years, mostly in the Sierra Nevada's of Central CA. If a fire is intentionally set it is either by an arsonist or some foolish Forest visitor. Fire Fighters set "Back Fires" as a tool in fighting a fire only under the direction of the Fire Bosses ("Overhead"). Back Fires are set after fire weather, topography, fuels and projected behavior are considered. There are times that unplanned "Back Fires" are necessitated because of Fire threats to crew safety or to protect resources due to changes in weather, fire bahavior etc. This is not done without considering the "Back Fire" your setting to protect one crew might put another crew in jeopardy. "Back Fires" are not set on a "whim" to play with the "drip torch" or play with the Berrie (sp) pistol. As per # 863 comments, USFS firefighters are either permanent or seasonal employees who get paid a hourly wage whether fighting fire or not. They will earn "hazard pay" (25% extra) in a fire situation and overtime for shifts of over 8 hours in a day. These are our Sons and Daughters at their unselfish best caring for others and the resouces of the Nation! (everything isn't always about Money!!)

Posted by Jim Behm September 15, 08 03:10 PM

What `would we do without these brave men and women. Are hearts and thanks are out to them.

Posted by Raslph Mainock September 23, 08 03:38 AM

Stop this insane GOD talk you freaks

Posted by w September 23, 08 09:21 AM

Icreilbles fotos, si aqui en espa�a contasemoss con la mitad de medios que en este pais, no pasaria lo q pasa. saludos, bombero almeria

Posted by fran rivas October 9, 08 12:50 PM

great brief info and pictures but i was wondering where i could find more accurate information...let me know...

Posted by cece October 20, 08 01:43 PM

Well I live in scotland , U.K. , But i feel truly sorry, and why cant Bush just draft in more firefighters and why cant the fire brigades use hard suction pumps from the sea to get extra water in ?

Posted by josh October 22, 08 12:06 PM

The pictures are amazing! But the sad reality of it all is that homes are being lost, lives are being destroyed... and there is only so much our boys can do. To many of you they may not seem like hero's. It may appear that these men and women are simply doing their jobs. But to the families of those fighting these raging blazes they are hero's, to the people whose property and livelihoods they are risking their lives for, they are hero's. And yes, God does need to be with them. I challenge all of you who think they are not hero's to go in and do what they do... and make it out alive! You'd be lucky to survive an hour! You ignorant a**holes are the ones God needs to be with.

Posted by wildland firefighters wife October 26, 08 12:06 PM

i cannot do anything but i pray god gives strength and power to those who help there really difficult but god everywhere.in the form of others those help u .

Posted by surbhi saini November 11, 08 03:17 AM

You are all in my prayers.

Posted by Toni Gauf November 16, 08 07:34 PM

Unbelievable courage and bravery, thank you for all you do

Posted by Josh Gurewtz, San Ramon CA November 17, 08 02:15 AM

we can send people to the moon and objects to mars and even build a space station to monitor the ravage fires here on earth. WHY cant we get the people who live here the simply education they need to save their lives and property. God Bless all who are helping and God will protect you all. I know why budget cuts and the fire and life safety educator is the first position to go. We should not be spending all the monies on the aftermath when we can prevent some of the tragidies that are occuring. Doubtful anyone will read this but I have said my true statements.

Posted by Jack November 19, 08 09:28 AM

God bless what they are doing. I wish them luck

Posted by Stroudle November 19, 08 07:46 PM

Wow, now I know why Califonia is so warm during the winter! Glad I live where there's nothing but love here in the city of Philadelphia. One of the top murder rates in the country....

Let's see fire or guns shots... Hmmm..... maybe I should move to the middle states....

Posted by 357 December 2, 08 01:40 PM

#893 u r wrong everybody can do something. no matter what it is u can do it.

im doing a report on forest fires and i came up with a solution. thats how i helped.
every1 in cali and all around the world please keep up the good work and come back safely this month. thats not much coming from a 12 year old but u still neede some more love than u have.

Posted by cam December 4, 08 05:56 PM

California i love you so much be safe an god look out for all of California and be careful firefighters!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by Hope December 12, 08 11:05 PM

I Know God is with those firefighters when their fighting a fire or having a cup of coffee.
Thanks to the photographer. You are also a very special person. You also have someone in you're corner.

Posted by Janet March 9, 09 09:47 AM

Thank you for helping California from dangerous fires.

Posted by danielle March 27, 09 12:51 PM

Awsome. Those guys are something specal

Posted by Christine Stempien May 11, 09 08:50 AM

hahaha #11, typically American: "If we can't extinguish it, shoot at it!!

Posted by The Dutch guy May 20, 09 06:19 AM

wow thats very sad

Posted by Kristen May 28, 09 01:54 PM

bless all the fire fighters who risk there lives to try and save so much. You are truely heros...

Posted by Diana July 12, 09 12:19 AM

thankyou all those fire fighters who are risking there lives for us.God bless those who shell risk there lives for us.God bless them so they don't die.Some may not be friends or familly but yet we shell still care for them.

Posted by Gabriel Caldera September 3, 09 07:44 PM

I LIKE TO HEAR FROM THE WINDBAG CALFIRE CHIEFS WIFE AGAIN. I FEEL SO SORRY FOR YOUR HUSBAND, HE'S SO OVER WORKED!!! , THEN HE HAS TO COME HOME TO A GAS BAG.. great pics though, keep forest fires green

Posted by mr green pants September 8, 09 12:41 AM

I feel realy sorry for all the big fires going on and people loosing there homes

Posted by Anonymous September 12, 09 04:38 PM

awsome pics. hey i do wonder though.if arnold can do all those amazing things in Terminator, why cant he put out some fires? lol No, realy god be with those who put their lives at risk to try and save whats left of California.

Posted by Andrew Cowart October 26, 09 10:50 AM