Chief Says San Diego Needs More Firefighting Resources

Dec. 3, 2007
Chief Tracy Jarman said San Diego and the region need to be better prepared.

SAN DIEGO --

San Diego's fire chief said the city needs more firefighting resources.

Chief Tracy Jarman said San Diego and the region need to be better prepared for the next firestorm.

She said the city had plenty of off-duty firefighters during the recent fires, but not enough engines. The city can't always rely on mutual aid for help, Jarman said.

The last time there were so many fires burning at once, state resources were stretched thin, she said.

"The city of San Diego was on their own," Jarman said. "I asked for 100 Type 1 Strike Teams. I asked for 50 Type 3 (teams) -- and there were no resources available."

County Supervisor Ron Roberts told NBC 7/39 he thinks there will be a "regional effort" to fill the gaps, but did not give specifics.

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