chevron responds to los angeles county wildfires

When wildfires broke out in Los Angeles County in January 2025, firefighters from across the state and beyond answered the call to protect people, homes and businesses. Among them were brave firefighters from the Chevron Fire Department (CFD) based in El Segundo, California, and Richmond, California.

El Segundo Fire Chief Leroy Diekmann has been part of Chevron’s firefighting team for 25 years. As with all firefighters, his team’s work is all about keeping people safe. “On a day-to-day basis, we provide oversight on hot work permits, confined space entries and overall safety for the refinery in El Segundo and the people who work there,” he explained. “We assist with whatever the call is. We’re here to help in the refinery, and we help out within the community when we can.”

When the Palisades Fire threatened Chevron’s Van Nuys terminal, the CFD sprang into action. Firefighters based in El Segundo and Richmond worked together to get personnel and equipment, including engines and foam tenders (used to suppress fires that are resistant to water) to the site.

“The team stayed there on site for four days, 24/7, and provided fire protection,” said Diekmann. “Thankfully, the fire didn’t reach the terminal.”

The department worked with the Los Angeles Fire Department, providing logistical support, meals and hydration to firefighters on the front lines. Personnel from Dion and Sons, a Chevron-owned oil and gas distributor, also provided support and supplies to the front lines.

In addition, Chevron facilities—including those in San Ramon, California, and Salt Lake City, Utah, as well as Chevron’s headquarters in Houston, Texas—coordinated efforts to help people affected by the fires. For example, Chevron sent thousands of N95 masks to El Segundo for distribution in the community, helping protect residents from smoke and air pollution that lingered even after the fires were contained.

In the wake of the fires, Chevron announced a total contribution of $1 million to support relief efforts in California.

The funds will be distributed to three organizations:

• The California Fire Foundation will receive $500,000 to support first responders and provide financial aid to affected residents.
• The American National Red Cross will receive $250,000 to provide food, shelter, clothing, emotional support and financial assistance.
• The Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce will receive $250,000 to support business recovery efforts, foster community engagement and advocate for disaster relief and rebuilding programs.

In addition, Chevron will match qualifying donations made by company employees and retirees to wildfire relief efforts, and it will provide financial contributions to organizations where its employees volunteer.

“Chevron’s legacy in California dates back more than 145 years,” said Mike Wirth, Chevron’s chairman and CEO. “We are heartbroken by the devastation in Los Angeles, inspired by the bravery of first responders and stand committed to assisting with relief and recovery efforts throughout greater Los Angeles County.”