David Valadao: “Last year, California set a record for the most acres burned in a single year, 4.1 million acres. Already in 2021…”

“Last year, California set a record for the most acres burned in a single year, 4.1 million acres. Already in 2021, devastating fires have burned through 1.6 million acres of our State. Hundreds, if not thousands, of residents are currently under evacuation orders, uncertain if they will have a home to return to once the orders are lifted. With another heat wave on its way, fighting the flames will be even more challenging, and the risks are even greater. Each year, California wildfires destroy our communities and put first responders and our firefighters in danger. As these men and women sacrifice their safety, it is imperative we provide firefighters with the latest and most advanced firefighting technologies. Containerized aerial firefighting systems provide ground crews with dependable cover from the air by providing a rapid surge of retardant to attack these fires from multiple points of contact. These fires can spread and expand at alarming rates, making rapid and aggressive containment strategies absolutely critical. We must provide firefighters with the tools and resources to do their courageous work effectively and safely. Billions of dollars are spent each year on recovering and restoring the environment and helping to rebuild communities after wildfires.…”