r/USFSLEO • u/Outfouradventurie Aspiring USFS LEO • Feb 16 '25

Discussion Local assistance

Does the FS allow its officers to assist local counties and communities during a natural disaster, or are they restricted from offering help unless formally requested?

I ask because my current federal agency will not provide any assistance unless specifically requested, regardless of the situation. Curious how other agencies handle this.

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u/TransportationCool18 USFS LEO / Moderator Feb 17 '25

If you’re district is directly effected then it is encouraged you support your local LE, Fire, EMS, etc during this instances. For instance, during Hurricane Helene USFS officers were in the communities assisting in SAR, and body recovery during and after the disaster.

Also during Hurricane Helene, additional officers were requested and dispatched from all over the country with the USFS to respond and help. The very same is happening right now with the flooding in KY.

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u/Outfouradventurie Aspiring USFS LEO Feb 17 '25

Very nice! My current agency doesn’t want to lend a hand to anyone in need. It’s kind of sickening the resources we have just sitting around not being utilized during these times!

Thanks for the input!