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At the Fires: CDCR Medical Emergency Response

January 23, 2025

The CDCR Medical Emergency Response Team is helping those who are battling the Los Angeles fires.

While incarcerated crews battle the Los Angeles fires, CDCR Medical Emergency Response Teams (MERT) are there to support them.

CDCR incarcerated fire crews are braving dangerous conditions to protect lives and communities. Facing extreme heat, smoke and hazardous terrain, ensuring we have medical staff onsite to provide care is an essential part of this mission.

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Currently, CDCR has deployed two MERT units stationed at the Rose Bowl stadium and Holton Camp. Hailing from the Sierra Conservation Center (SCC), they ensure immediate care for minor injuries, while coordinating transport in case of more serious conditions.

Each MERT consists of a registered nurse team lead, a nurse or licensed vocational nurse, and a physician or mid-level provider. Operating on seven-day rotations, these teams are equipped with advanced medical supplies, utilizing CDCR’s emergency medical response protocols and triage system to deliver high-quality care.

CDCR Medical Emergency Response Teams help at the fires

CDCR Medical Emergency Response Team doctor discussing fire response efforts. — Dr. Steve Smith

Dr. Steve Smith, Physician & Surgeon from Sierra Conservation Center, said if someone needs care while they are responding to an incident, MERT is there to help.

He’s based at the Rose Bowl stadium incident command post for the Eaton fire.

“We typically provide support for our incarcerated fire (crews) as our primary mission,” said Smith.

They also support people from other agencies assisting in the incident response.

“We provide broad spectrum medical care as a mobile urgent care facility,” said Smith.

Lt. Manny Nunez said the MERT has treated cuts, scrapes, and poison oak.

“We don’t have to go out into the community to a hospital and take up an emergency bed there to get our guys treated. We have our folks here. It helps keeps the operation going more smoothly,” said Nunez.

Video by Richard Tan, TV Specialist
Office of Public and Employee Communications
Story by California Correctional Health Care Services