Northern California fire agencies help firefighters who lost homes in wildfires

OAKLAND, Calif. -- A group of Northern California firefighters is coming together to help some of their own.

The Oakland Fire Department, joined by the Firefighters First Credit Union, says at least 30 firefighters lost their homes during September wildfires that burned across California and that they've raised $30,000, which will go to the affected firefighters.

VIDEO: Firefighter returns to home destroyed by Valley Fire

That includes Cal Fire Battalion Chief Paul Duncan, who lost his home in Hidden Valley during the Valley Fire.

Duncan was busy battling the fire when the flames overran his house. His wife was home at the time recovering from back surgery.

"And had about six minutes from that text 'til the back of the house was on fire," he said. "So she was able to grab a bag, some of her clothes, a few pictures and put herself in one car, two kids in another, and another kid in one."

On top of raising funds, each fire department will adopt a displaced firefighter to help them get back on their feet.

Click here for full coverage on the devastating Valley Fire.

PHOTOS: Crews battle devastating Valley Fire

PHOTOS: ABC7 News reporters at the Valley Fire