Heroes you can count on

As fires burned in northern Los Angeles County two weeks ago, members of the Newport Beach and Costa Mesa fire departments were there battling the blazes with their fellow firefighters.

That might seem a bit far from home, but the fire departments’ efforts could pay off if things get bad in their backyards.

The firefighting work was part of a statewide agreement among fire agencies to help one another in times of need. It’s an agreement that should help us all sleep a little easier, knowing we’re not only in the capable hands of our local firefighters but also that they’ve got back-up if need be.

The fires in Topanga and Burbank were just the latest reminder that we never know when a disaster may strike that requires us to call for extra help. This weekend’s earthquake across the globe in Pakistan as well as the two hurricanes in the Gulf Coast were even more horrific reminders.

Eight firefighters from Newport-Mesa were dispatched to the Topanga fire as part of a five-engine strike team. Once that fire settled down a bit, they were transferred to the Burbank fire.

We can count ourselves lucky that in recent years we haven’t had to call on others’ aid in like fashion. But it’s comforting to know it’s there if we need it.