Weary Firefighters Bunking at HSU

Some of the many fire departments bunking at Humboldt State University. [Photo from HSU’s Facebook page.]

More than 100 CAL FIRE firefighters who have been battling blazes in southern Humboldt County will be staying at HSU through the weekend.

Looking for a place to rest, CAL FIRE called local hotels and found many were booked. The agency turned to Humboldt State.

“We appreciate all the help we can get,” said Paula Harris, a firefighter with Cal Fire who is coordinating the housing effort with HSU. “We’ve had people sleeping in the dirt because there weren’t enough hotels.”

Most are coming off a 24-hour shift at the Eel River base camp. Fire crews are from areas including Palomar, Los Angeles County and north San Diego. Firefighters are expected to stay at HSU through the weekend and possibly longer.

“For Humboldt State University, hosting these men and women is a privilege,” said Steve St. Onge, Director of Housing and Residence Life. “We’re incredibly grateful for what they’re doing to protect our communities, and we’re happy to be able to do a little something for them.”