Fresno Fire and Fresno County Cal Fire join forces

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Fire departments in Fresno County and the city of Fresno announced they're joining efforts to fight fires.

This past June, Fresno firefighters were stretched thin, responding to multiple emergency calls across the city. Going forward, that response will be strengthened thanks to a newly created partnership between Fresno Fire and Fresno County Cal Fire.

"At the end of the day, this is about the closest unit response," said Fresno Fire Chief Kerri Donis. "People call us, they really don't care what badge is there. They just want people to show up quickly to manage their emergency situation."

Chief Donis and Fresno County Cal Fire Chief Mark Johnson stood side by side Thursday to announce a new automatic-aid agreement. It's been more than nine years since the city and county had such an agreement, one they attribute to new leadership.

"It's the right thing to do," said Chief Donis. "We put politics aside and it's what's best about what's best for the citizenry."

Officials say unlike mutual aid, the automatic response will look at distance to direct firefighters.

"It's automatic it doesn't require anyone's permission," said Chief Johnson. "The dispatch centers just start that equipment."

Residents in several areas will see faster response time and a different uniform.

"The areas in the south central part of Fresno, will be impacted the most," said Chief Donis. "The county is closer to those areas with their station 87. There's about almost 700 calls that they can get to quicker than we can."

Both departments already have auto aid agreement with Clovis and other agencies.

Officials say the new agreement will not only be beneficial for their firefighters, but also in their efforts when they're trying to save structures and lives.