Full Notification

The Novato Fire District has sent resources and personnel to help support in the firefighting efforts in northern California. The Novato Fire District has deployed 3 Engines, 2 Battalion Chiefs and 1 Fire Captain to participate on several Marin County Strike Teams and command positions.

A Marin County Strike Team is comprised of 5 fire engines (4 firefighters on an engine) and a strike team leader that oversees the 20 personnel. A total of three strike teams have been activated from Marin County to assist in two California fires, the Rocky Fire in Lake County and the River Complex in Shasta County. This brings the total to over 65 personnel from Marin County, including 15 firefighters from Novato.

The Rocky Fire is approximately 60,000 acres with 12% containment. The terrain is steep and rugged with limited access, fuels are at critical levels and there is little to no fire history in the area. In total, all evacuations impact over 13,118 citizens living in over 5,530 residences. Firefighters are working in volatile conditions with erratic winds changing directions which make for a difficult plan of attack. The two Marin County Strike Teams will defend homes and property as well as fire suppression for the remainder of the week.

A third Marin County Strike Team responded to the River Complex in Shasta County. Many of the 18 fires burning in the River Complex have burned together, totaling 3,180 with zero containment. Vegetation around many structures is being modified to provide for defensible space. Keeping roads cleared has presented a challenge due to falling rocks and trees. There are many hazard trees throughout the fire area posing a danger to firefighters and motorists. The River Complex Fire started from lightning.

Novato Fire Chief Mark Heine states, “I am so impressed with our firefighters, their dedication and professionalism not only to Novato, but in protecting communities across the state of California. All of our first responders are committed to continued top-notch service to our communities in responding to local emergencies. Our stations and equipment remain fully staffed while we support the firefighting efforts in other communities. This job can take a toll on all of our fire families that are waiting for the safe return of their loved ones and we recognize their support during these demanding fire incidents.”

Novato Fire District would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our residents and partners that have worked hard to create defensible space. It is in times like this that we realize the huge impact that you have made by reducing the fuel load. We appreciate our communities for pulling together to prevent a catastrophic fire event in Marin County.

We also appreciate the support and good wishes that many of you have expressed.