While teams in LA enhance containment, New York is striving to increase wildfire readiness

New York – As crews in Los Angeles County attempt to prevent fatal wildfires that have been blazing since last week, federal senators in New York are reflecting on flames that occurred downstate in 2024.

Speaking Thursday morning, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand urged funding to make sure the state is ready for risks like wildfires.

If authorized, the materials would support firefighter training, forest management, and public fire safety education.

“This week I’m sending a letter to the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services requesting information on our state’s readiness to combat wildfires,” Gillibrand said. “The risk of wildfires is too great for New Yorkers to ignore. In order to protect our communities, properties, and first responders, we must ensure that we are ready.

Additionally, Gillibrand discussed the use of government money to equip and train fire units to fight larger fires.