Fire officials say they don’t have infrastructure to hold donated items

Officials overseeing the fight against the SCU Lightning Complex fires on Sunday expressed appreciation for offers of donations for firefighters by the public, but said they are not needed.

Cal Fire said in an announcement Sunday:

“Incident Command Posts and base camps are set up to provide excellent logistical support to firefighters during fires, including food and other supplies. We greatly appreciate the public’s support and desire to donate, but do not have the infrastructure to accept any donations, especially food.”

Fire camps carefully follow health and safety regulations, as well as Covid-19 protocols, fire officials said.

Cal Fire said:

“In lieu of donations, please contact your local Red Cross or other organization to see if they are accepting assistance for those in need, or for information about how you can help those evacuated.”

Cal Fire reported Monday morning that SCU Lightning Complex fires have burned 347,196 acres, destroyed 12 structures and is currently only 10 percent contained. Three firefighters and two civilians have been injured.