Travelers at Albany International Airport may have brushed shoulders with heroes today as 10 forest rangers from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) were seen on their way to aid firefighters battling the deadly wildfires in Los Angeles.

The fires, which have been fueled by strong winds and dry conditions, have stole the attention of the entire nation as the flames continue to burn homes and businesses. Now, some of New York's bravest are headed into the path of disaster.

NYS DEC Forest Rangers were seen at the Albany airport today as they prepared to travel to fight the Los Angeles wildfires (NYS DEC via Facebook)
NYS DEC Forest Rangers were seen at the Albany airport today as they prepared to travel to fight the Los Angeles wildfires (NYS DEC via Facebook)
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DEC Forest Rangers Deployed to Fight Los Angeles Wildfires

"This morning, 10 DEC Forest Rangers flew out of Albany after being deployed to California to support ongoing efforts to contain wildfires raging in Los Angeles", began a recent post from the NYS DEC (below). Many residents couldn't be prouder of their contributions.

New York Residents Praise DEC Forest Rangers

"Thank you! The NYS Forest Rangers are always there to help", shared one commenter. "Good Luck to all you brave souls! Stay safe!", said another. Governor Kathy Hochul shared praise for the rangers as well.

"New York’s expert wildland firefighting Forest Rangers were eager to answer the call... I thank them for their bravery and look forward to their safe return", the governor said about their two week mission.

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The fires, which have been burning for over a week, have killed at least 25 people and destroyed thousands of structures. DEC rangers are offering assistance as part of an international agreement between firefighting professionals.

Devastating Los Angeles Wildfires in Photos

See jaw-dropping photos from the multiple wildfires raging through Los Angeles in January 2025.

10 Tips To Prevent Wildfires

Smokey The Bear said it best, "only you can prevent wildfires." Well, it's a lot easier said than done, Smokey. Great name for a bear trying to warn us about fire hazards, by the way.

In order to prevent wildfires, you have to first know how they can be prevented. Here are 10 tips provided by the Department Of Interior that will help you in your every day life, so you can enjoy being outside, camping, and having bonfires without it turning into a problem.

Here are their 10 tips, along with some simplified explanations from me.

Gallery Credit: Cort Freeman

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