By Robert Haugh

A Santa Clara Fire Department (SCFD) engine company is on the front lines of the Eaton Fire in Pasadena as part of a regional mutual aid effort. 

The fire crew was assigned to Division J (Juliet) and has been performing mop-up operations under challenging weather conditions marked by strong winds and low humidity, according to the SCFD.

Last Tuesday at 5:30 p.m., Santa Clara Fire Engine 90 was dispatched to the Pasadena Fire Staging Area at the Rose Bowl, where it joined a task force from Santa Clara County. 

Santa Clara Fire Engine 97 has been on scene for more than 36 hours, working non-stop.

The crew reports that they are safe but “very tired and could really use a hot meal and a shower.” They have been assigned to another 24 hours of duty before getting a much-needed rest.

Several homes in the area are at risk as the fire continues to threaten endangered properties.

Despite the deployment of two engine companies to Southern California, all Santa Clara fire stations remain fully staffed to ensure public safety at home, according to SCFD.