Three Oklahoma wildfire task forces deploy to help battle blazes in southwest Kansas

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (KOKH) — Three Oklahoma wildland fire task forces are headed to Kansas to assist with wildfires in southwest Kansas.

Governor Kevin Stitt and the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM) said three task forces made up of fire departments from Major, Noble, and Washington counties would assist with ongoing wildfires near Ashland.

The task forces include 32 firefighters, 15 brush trucks, and 1 tender. Crews will be deployed for 12 hours, but that period could be extended.

“Oklahoma is ready to extend the Oklahoma standard as communities respond to these fires,” said Governor Kevin Stitt. “Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management is activated and is deploying resources to assist local partners in need. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as needed.”

The crews are deploying at the request of the Kansas Department of Emergency Management. The department requested assistance through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC).

EMAC is a national aid system allowing states to send assistance to help with disaster relief efforts in other states.

“EMAC allows states to quickly share resources when they’re needed most, and we’re grateful our county partners are answering the call to support Kansas,” OEM Director Annie Mack Vest said.

OEM said more support may be deployed if needed.

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