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Special fire unit to patrol remote Lockwood Valley

As the fire season approaches, the Ventura County Fire Department plans to deploy a special firefighting vehicle to patrol the county's most isolated community.

Beginning Sunday, a lightweight truck carrying emergency medical supplies, a water tank and a pump will be stationed in Lockwood Valley, more than 60 miles north of Ojai, the department announced Tuesday. Two fire captains will stay in Lockwood Valley or commute to the remote outpost to man the vehicle.

The unit can advise the department if a wildfire breaks out there and respond quickly to emergencies in the area, which is popular with off-road-vehicle enthusiasts.

The Fire Department began stationing a small firefighting team in the rural area about four years ago in response to requests from the community, fire Capt. Matthew Garrett said.

The Fire Department works with the Ventura County Sheriff's Department, the Kern County Fire Department, American Medical Response, Hall Ambulance Services and the U.S. Forest Service to provide emergency services in Lockwood Valley.

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